ESPN analyst Greg McElroy has released his highly anticipated rankings of the top 10 secondary units for the 2026 college football season, a list that spotlights the nation’s most talent‑laden defensive backfields.
The Top Spot: Notre Dame's Defensive Backfield
Leading the pack, the Fighting Irish boast a secondary anchored by sophomore cornerback Leonard Moore, widely regarded as the best cornerback in the country. His blend of size, speed and ball‑hawking instincts has drawn praise from coaches and analysts alike, and the unit’s continuity should keep them at the summit.
Alabama’s Returning Duo
The Crimson Tide slide into the second spot thanks to the return of standout safeties Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb. Both players bring a mix of physicality and coverage skill that helped Alabama finish among the nation’s top defenses last year.
Texas Tech’s Ascending Unit
Texas Tech climbs to third place with the return of cornerback Brice Pollock and safety Amier Boyd‑Matthews. Their chemistry and experience give the Red Raiders a secondary that could surprise many contenders.
Georgia’s Defensive Core
Georgia holds the fourth position, featuring returning safety KJ Bolden. While Bolden’s presence is a certainty, questions linger about the opposite safety spot, creating both intrigue and a need for depth.
LSU’s New Additions
The Tigers round out the top five with new additions like Ty Benefield leading the charge. Benefield’s athleticism and playmaking ability are expected to inject fresh energy into LSU’s secondary.
Ohio State’s Experienced Backfield
Ohio State secures sixth place, bolstered by the return of Jaylen McClain and Jermaine Mathews. Their combined experience should keep the Buckeyes among the defensive elite.
Oregon’s Rebuilding Effort
Oregon slides into seventh, reloading with cornerback Koi Perich and safety Carl Williams. The Ducks’ defensive coordinator hopes the new pieces will mesh quickly.
Michigan’s New Coordinator
Michigan’s secondary is ranked eighth, with Jay Hill stepping in as the new defensive coordinator. Hill’s reputation for developing talent adds optimism to the Wolverines’ defensive outlook.
Texas A&M’s Defensive Overhaul
Texas A&M lands ninth, featuring returning cornerback Dezz Ricks and newcomer Rickey Gibson. The Aggies’ defensive staff believes the blend of veteran presence and fresh arms will tighten the unit.
Penn State’s Fresh Leadership
Penn State rounds out the top ten under new head coach Matt Campbell. With players like Audavion Collins and Daryus Dixson returning, the Nittany Lions hope to translate the coach’s aggressive philosophy into on‑field success.
Coaching Continuity and Future Outlook
Across the board, continuity remains a common thread. Programs that retain key assistants such as Jay Hill and Matt Campbell are positioned to maximize the talent already in place. As the 2026 season approaches, these secondary units will be watched closely for how their offseason moves translate into real‑time results.