Ranking the 2026 College Football Linebacker Elite
A look at the top five units poised to dominate the trenches next season, featuring standout players and strategic additions
Latest Slidescroller coverage in Football.
A look at the top five units poised to dominate the trenches next season, featuring standout players and strategic additions

After a devastating knee injury ended his 2025 campaign, Max Granville is back on the practice field, buoyed by supportive teammates, a new coaching staff, and optimism for the upcoming season.

Penn State is counting on Brock Riker, a transfer from Texas State, to anchor a revamped offensive line for the 2026 campaign. His size, pass‑blocking pedigree and recent weight gain align with the program’s emphasis on physicality.
Dolly Parton’s final appearance at a Tennessee football game combined a heartfelt musical tribute with a historic victory over Alabama, underscoring her enduring bond with the state.

The Rainbow Warriors debut a Pualani patch on their jerseys, marking a milestone in a long‑standing airline partnership that also secures charter flights for all road games.

Bemidji State University is gearing up to celebrate its centennial football season with a non‑conference matchup against Michigan Tech, featuring key returning players and a new starting quarterback.

A shooting during an August 2024 football game at Independence High School sparked outrage, with parents, students and local advocates urging immediate safety upgrades.

Six players, including senior wide receiver Griffin Wilde and graduate student quarterback Aidan Chiles, will lead Northwestern’s football team in its upcoming campaign, marking the second time the program has named six captains.

After years of winless campaigns, Pickering High School's football program posted a 5-5 record in 2025, driven by Coach John Daugherty's structured plan, senior linebacker Hunter Noel's defensive leadership, and quarterback Taylon Osorio's development, aiming for a playoff berth in District 5, Class 2A.

Returning Division I champions CVU Redhawks are determined to improve on last year's 2‑7 record and push past a first‑round exit, driven by a strong senior and junior core and a motivated coaching staff.
The Detroit News has released its preseason Top 25 high school football rankings, highlighting Detroit Catholic Central as the No. 1 team in Division 1 and spotlighting key players and storylines across the state.

The Lancers are building on last year's playoff run with a focus on class, physicality and teamwork, led by senior quarterback Miller Haedt and a close‑knit group of veterans.

With 42 seniors and a fresh defensive coordinator, Augustana’s football team is emphasizing leadership, chemistry and upgraded training as it readies for a season opener at home against Simpson College on September 5.

Former Georgia defensive standout David Pollack announces a partnership with On3 for the 2026 college football season, promising expanded analysis and a continued rise of his independent podcast.

The Vandals open the 2026 campaign with a marquee Big Sky showdown against Cal Poly, scheduled for August 28 at 7:00 PM PT at Alex G. Spanos Stadium in San Luis Obispo, California. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN, marking the first live game of the season and one of three Idaho contests slated for the network this year.

Ahead of each home football game, the university’s new Rooftop Pāʻina transforms the fifth‑floor parking deck into a vibrant gathering spot, blending local flavor with stadium views.

An investigation into alleged inappropriate behavior at a football camp in Williams, Arizona, has led to administrative leave for several teachers, game cancellations, and a uncertain football season.

A multi‑year agreement will feature Hawaiian Airlines’ branding on Rainbow Warrior football jerseys, launch dedicated charter flights, and deepen fan engagement as the program enters its first full season in the Mountain West.

When a severe storm knocked out power across Kansas City, Kansas, the Washington High School football squad turned adversity into an opportunity to serve their neighbors, embodying the school's values of character and unity.

Morning sessions, varied opponents and a focus on discipline mark the second day of the Greater Spokane League football tour, with coaches highlighting preparation, team‑building and the benefits of non‑league competition.

After a focused stretch of training, Baylor's running backs and offensive line are poised to play pivotal roles in the team's strategy for the new season.

The Mustangs will open their 2026 campaign on ESPN against Idaho, marking the program’s first nationally televised game. The event will retire John Madden’s No. 74 jersey and debut the new John Madden Football Center, while head coach Tim Skipper begins his tenure with a high‑profile schedule.

The North Bay kicks off its high school football season with Friday night games and a Saturday showcase, while the PD Preps podcast spotlights local storylines and a recent controversy involving the San Francisco Giants and a 49ers executive.

Predictions highlight record‑breaking passing and rushing targets, defensive standouts, and a challenging schedule for the Wolverines.