As the 2026 college football season approaches, analysts and voters are already mapping out potential movements in the AP Top 25. The preseason conversation centers on a handful of programs that appear poised to dominate the early ballots, while several under‑the‑radar teams could surprise with strong performances.
Top Contenders
Ohio State enters the conversation with a track record of dominance, having finished the previous season undefeated and ranked No. 1 in the AP poll. The Buckeyes benefit from voter continuity, a factor that could translate into a surge of first‑place votes as the new season begins.
In the Pacific Northwest, Oregon’s resurgence under head coach Dan Lanning has generated buzz. With quarterback Dante Moore at the helm of a talented roster, the Ducks are projected to crack the top four, a placement that reflects both offensive firepower and defensive stability.
Texas is another program riding a wave of optimism. Guided by head coach Steve Sarkisian and returning quarterback Arch Manning, the Longhorns are expected to garner significant first‑place support, especially if their early games align with voter expectations.
Indiana’s ascent is largely credited to Curt Cignetti, whose program has earned respect despite finishing sixth in voting points last season. The Hoosiers’ upward trajectory suggests they could break into the upper tier if they maintain momentum.
Notre Dame adds intrigue with sophomore standout CJ Carr, whose Heisman candidacy and demanding schedule have positioned the Fighting Irish as a potential national title contender in the preseason rankings.
Programs With Established Momentum
Georgia’s recent SEC dominance and consistent recruiting have kept the Bulldogs in the conversation, even though media narratives sometimes prioritize mock drafts and transfer portal activity over on‑field achievements.
Miami’s preseason placement at No. 7 reflects a strong performance but also highlights the team’s difficulty navigating ballot‑by‑ballot tiebreakers, leaving them clearly above many peers yet just outside the top five.
Oklahoma continues to leverage a 2025 playoff appearance and a history of consistent playoff showings, positioning the Sooners as a perennial top‑tier threat.
Ole Miss, buoyed by a 2025 playoff run orchestrated by Trinidad Chambliss and sustained by Pete Golding’s stability, is expected to feature prominently in the upper echelon of the poll.
Texas A&M’s undefeated stretch before setbacks and its regular playoff appearances have kept the Aggies in the mix, even though they have not yet secured a surge in first‑place votes.
LSU’s recent activity in the transfer portal and continuity on the roster have sparked speculation about a possible top‑10 finish, as voters weigh the impact of new talent against proven experience.
Alabama faces quarterback uncertainty, a factor that could keep the Crimson Tide from occupying the very top spots despite a storied program.
USC’s emergence is anchored by star quarterback Jayden Maiava, whose presence and program enhancements have secured a top‑15 preseason ranking.
Dark Horses and Rising Programs
Michigan’s new head coach Kyle Whittingham brings a fresh philosophy, while the potential impact of recruit Bryce Underwood could elevate the Wolverines into the top 20.
BYU’s continuity and consistency may translate into a third‑place voting point finish among peers, while Penn State’s influx of Cyclone talent and staff overhaul aims to rebound from a 7‑6 season.
Tennessee’s quarterback stability and high talent level have set a top‑20 benchmark despite an 8‑win campaign last year, and SMU’s strong ACC performance could earn them a top‑25 slot.
Washington’s dynamic quarterback play and special‑teams talent make them a weekly threat, potentially delivering a top‑20 finish, while Iowa’s rock‑solid consistency and recent offensive‑line development reinforce their place in the rankings.
Florida’s recent hire of Jon Sumrall and program improvements have generated optimism, though media bias may still favor them over the Coaches Poll.