Preseason Top 25 Overview
The latest preseason AP Top 25 has placed the Ohio State Buckeyes at the summit, earning 40 first‑place votes and signaling a strong expectation for the upcoming season.
Coach Ryan Day, who took over the program in 2019, has undertaken a comprehensive overhaul of his defensive scheme after the departure of key contributors Arvell Reese, Caleb Downs and Sonny Styles.
To fill the void, Day turned to the transfer portal, securing experienced linemen and secondary players, while also promoting internal talent to maintain depth.
Offensive Firepower Returns
On the offensive side, Ohio State retains a wealth of playmakers, including rising passer Julian Sayin, power runner Bo Jackson and standout receiver Jeremiah Smith, all of whom are expected to drive the Buckeyes’ attack.
The team also welcomes back veteran coordinator Arthur Smith, who succeeded Brian Hartline as offensive coordinator, adding a fresh tactical dimension to the squad.
Texas’s Quiet Resurgence
Texas, ranked sixth nationally, is attempting to rebound from a lackluster 2025 campaign, with quarterback Arch Manning delivering a compelling second‑half surge that produced 1,714 yards, 14 touchdowns and only two interceptions.
Manning’s resurgence, coupled with the return of defensive stalwarts such as Jelani McDonald and SEC sack leader Colin Simmons, has positioned the Longhorns as a dark‑horse contender for a national title.
Home‑and‑Home Showdown
The Buckeyes and Longhorns are slated to meet in a home‑and‑home series beginning September 12, a matchup that could prove pivotal in shaping the early narrative of the season.
Oregon’s Championship Ambitions
Meanwhile, Oregon’s coach Dan Lanning, who guided the Ducks to a playoff semifinal in 2025, faces heightened scrutiny as the team seeks to translate a strong defensive core — featuring Matayo Uiagalelei, Teitum Tuioti, Bear Alexander and A’Mauri Washington — into championship success.
Adding intrigue, quarterback Dante Moore opted against a top‑five NFL draft selection, a decision that could reshape Oregon’s offensive plans heading into the fall.