The 2026 College Football Power Players Shaping the Playoff Landscape
A look at the athletes and leaders whose performances and decisions will determine the trajectory of the 2026 college football season and its playoff picture.
Aug 8, 2026
Location
USC (University of Southern California)
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Ohio State Tops Preseason Coaches Poll Amidst Daunting Schedule
The Buckeyes captured the No. 1 spot in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll, receiving 38 of 72 first‑place votes and 1,741 total points. Their quarterback‑receiver tandem of Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith is highlighted as one of the nation’s most potent combinations, while the team confronts six opponents ranked in the top 25, including Oregon, Texas, Indiana, USC, Michigan and Iowa.
Aug 4, 2026