The 2026 college football season is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory, with a slate of nonconference games that could dramatically influence the eventual College Football Playoff picture.
Week 0: A Global Kickoff
The season opens with a historic overseas matchup as North Carolina travels to Dublin to face TCU, marking the first time a Power Five program opens its schedule abroad.
Week 1: Storylines and Debuts
Coach Deion Sanders returns to Atlanta, his former recruiting ground, when his Colorado team lines up against Georgia Tech. Meanwhile, Baylor’s highly anticipated quarterback DJ Lagway makes his debut against Auburn, adding a fresh narrative to the Bears’ offense.
Tulane, the defending American Athletic Conference champion, draws ACC powerhouse Duke in a marquee early‑season test, while Clemson’s new head coach Lane Kiffin makes his first appearance on the field with the Tigers against LSU, promising a fresh tactical approach.
The first week also features the Music City Kickoff, where Louisville and Ole Miss meet in Nashville, a game that could set the tone for both programs’ conference campaigns.
Week 2: Road Tests and Rivalries
Ohio State journeys to Texas in what is being billed as the preseason game of the year, while the Missouri–Kansas rivalry resumes on a Friday night, reigniting a storied in‑state contest.
Also in Week 2, Tennessee makes its first appearance at Bobby Dodd Stadium since 1986, traveling to face Georgia Tech in Atlanta, and Texas A&M takes on Big 12 contender Arizona State, adding another layer of intrigue to the early schedule.
The slate continues with Oklahoma’s rematch against Michigan, a revenge narrative from last year’s encounter, and Memphis’ showdown with Boise State, a clash that could have ramifications for both the American Athletic and Pac‑12 conferences.
Week 3: Revenge and Resurgence
Alabama seeks retribution against Florida State after last year’s upset, while Tulane’s potential victory over Kansas State could bolster its playoff résumé, and FIU and Florida Atlantic battle for regional bragging rights in south Florida.
Week 7: The Notre Dame–BYU Clash
Notre Dame and BYU, the first two teams projected to be among the 2025 CFP participants, meet in a game that could solidify early playoff positioning for both programs.
Week 10: Miami’s Test Against Notre Dame
Miami (FL) travels to face Notre Dame in a game with significant CFP weight, promising a battle of contrasting offensive philosophies.
Week 13: Georgia Tech vs Georgia – A Potential Playoff Decider
The Georgia Tech–Georgia matchup in Week 13 could have playoff implications, as the rivalry renews on the historic Bobby Dodd Stadium field.