The latest US LBM Coaches Poll has cemented Ohio State’s place at the summit, marking their first preseason No. 1 ranking since 2015 and positioning them as the early favorite for a second national championship in three years.
Close behind, Oregon has secured the second‑highest preseason position in program history, driven by quarterback Dante Moore’s dynamic playmaking and a defensive front anchored by Matayo Uiagalelei and Bear Alexander.
Georgia, sitting at No. 3, brings back a stout defense featuring standout defensive backs Ellis Robinson and KJ Bolden, alongside linebackers Raylen Wilson and Chris Cole, all aiming to capture a third straight SEC title.
Texas enters the rankings at No. 4, led by quarterback Arch Manning, with recent transfer Cam Coleman bolstering the receiving corps, while the offensive line receives particular focus to protect the backfield.
Notre Dame, ranked No. 5, must replace two of its top running backs and will rely on quarterback CJ Carr to maintain offensive momentum after a playoff miss last season.
Indiana, the defending national champions, opens at No. 6 and will lean on transfer quarterback Josh Hoover and wide‑out Nick Marsh to reload a potent attack.
Key Transfers and Injury Concerns
Several programs are navigating significant roster changes. Oklahoma’s quarterback John Mateer is working to regain form after a thumb injury, while Ole Miss benefits from the return of quarterback Trinidad Chambliss, who missed much of the previous campaign due to off‑field drama.
Alabama faces questions about head coach Kalen DeBoer’s early tenure, despite fielding a defense that remains among the nation’s best, though offensive progress remains uncertain.
Texas Tech’s transfer quarterback situation creates uncertainty, but the team boasts top running back Cameron Dickey and an experienced linebacker group that could stabilize the defense.
LSU, under new leadership, is expected to improve its offensive line while leaning on a strong defensive unit to stay in contention for the SEC crown.
USC’s development of quarterback Jayden Maiava and the hiring of veteran coordinator Gary Patterson for the defense add intrigue to their prospects, while BYU aims to climb higher after missing the playoff last year, led by quarterback Bear Bachmeier and a solid offensive line anchored by Bruce Mitchell.
Michigan’s new coach Kyle Whittingham inherits a program with high expectations, but the development of quarterback Bryce Underwood will be pivotal, supported by defensive contributions from former Utah standouts.
Penn State relies on transfers such as quarterback Rocco Becht and wide receiver Chase Sowell, yet a challenging schedule that avoids Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana could test their playoff aspirations.
Tennessee, Washington, and SMU each confront distinct hurdles: Tennessee must clarify its quarterback identity and shore up the offensive line and defense; Washington seeks a more potent run game and veteran line play; SMU, under new coach Mike McCarthy, hopes to leverage defensive standouts like DE David Bailey and LB Jacob Rodriguez to improve against a tough slate.
Overall, the preseason rankings set the stage for a season filled with storylines — from Ohio State’s quest for a championship to the rise of new offensive talents and the inevitable impact of injuries and transfers. Fans can expect a dynamic early schedule that will shape the early narrative of the national title race.