The Associated Press will release its 2026 preseason Top 25 college football poll at noon Eastern Time, a moment that traditionally sets the tone for the upcoming season. The ranking draws on votes from more than 60 journalists who cover the sport nationwide.
Early Title Contenders
Indiana’s 2025 campaign ended with a perfect 16‑0 record and a national title, a feat that propelled eight of its starters into the NFL, including Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, the first overall pick in the draft.
Returning standouts for Ohio State include quarterback Julian Sayin and receiver Jeremiah Smith, while defensive anchor Kenyatta Jackson Jr. is expected to fortify the Buckeyes’ front line.
Texas and Oregon also boast quarterbacks who are generating Heisman conversation, adding depth to a competitive field.
A Legacy of Rankings
The AP poll has been the longest‑running measure of college football dominance since 1936, using a pure vote‑based approach that discounts reputation, speculation and regional bias.
Voters evaluate teams strictly on head‑to‑head results from the previous season, ensuring that the rankings reflect on‑field performance rather than preseason hype.