
Six Teams Poised to Shape the 2026 College Football Landscape
A look at the six programs that could define the 2026 college football season, from quarterback breakthroughs to defensive overhauls.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Collin Klein across Football, Basketball.

A look at the six programs that could define the 2026 college football season, from quarterback breakthroughs to defensive overhauls.

Phil Steele’s 2026 Big 12 projections place Texas Tech as the preseason favorite, with BYU, Utah, Houston and Arizona close behind, while key player and coach movements set the stage for a competitive season.

USA TODAY Sports ranks the 16 Big 12 head coaches, highlighting records, experience, and the shifting power dynamics that could define the 2025 championship race.
Coach Collin Klein is leveraging his Manhattan home to build a family‑like atmosphere that is attracting top talent and redefining Kansas State's recruiting narrative.

Analysts map out likely outcomes for the upcoming Big 12 season, highlighting teams poised for the playoff, mid‑tier battles, and the pressure on several coaches.
As the 2026 college football season approaches, the Big 12 finds itself at a crossroads. Programs are led by a mix of proven winners, rising innovators and coaches under intense scrutiny, setting the stage for a dramatic year of competition.

The conference sees its most extensive turnover of head coaches in seven years, featuring returning alumni, defensive masterminds and national champions.

The conference sees its most extensive coaching reshuffle in seven years, featuring first‑time head coaches at their alma maters and a national championship pedigree.

At the 2026 Monster Energy Big 12 Football Media Day, Kansas State head coach Collin Klein outlined his vision for the program, emphasizing faith, an old‑school work ethic and the development of quarterback Avery Johnson.

Kansas State’s football program is poised for a breakout 2026 campaign, thanks in large part to a wave of high‑profile transfers from across the Big 12.
Collin Klein made his first appearance as Kansas State's head coach at Big 12 Media Days in Frisco, Texas, where he discussed offensive strategy, player health and the impact of new NCAA eligibility rules on quarterback Avery Johnson.

The 2026 Big 12 Football Media Days will take place in Frisco, Texas, featuring live broadcasts, major controversies, and the first public appearances of several new coaches.
The 2026 Big 12 Football Media Days will take place July 7‑8 in Frisco, Texas, with live broadcasts on ESPNU and Big 12 Studios, featuring discussions on Texas Tech’s off‑field issues, Deion Sanders’ Colorado rebuild, Arizona State’s quarterback questions and more.

Kansas State’s defensive standout Wendell Gregory and offensive lineman John Pastore have been selected to the 2026 Preseason All‑Big 12 team, highlighting the program’s momentum heading into media events in Texas.
From Michigan’s Bryce Underwood to UCLA’s Nico Iamaleava, a handful of elite signal-callers are navigating pivotal years under new mentors, each hoping to translate potential into tangible success.

The upcoming clash between Kansas State and Kansas is more than just another chapter in the Sunflower Showdown; it is a test of momentum that could define the trajectory of both programs as they head into the 2026 season.

Collin Klein, a 2012 Heisman Trophy finalist and longtime Kansas State assistant, is now the head coach tasked with revitalizing the Wildcats after a 6‑6 season.

The Cyclones will confront twelve different head coaches next year, each bringing a distinct background and recent track record that could influence Iowa State’s performance on the field.
Fans can glimpse how the Kansas State Wildcats will appear in the upcoming EA Sports College Football 27, which features an 81 overall rating, key player scores, the new Mascot Mashup mode and a simulated 10‑3 season culminating in a Liberty Bowl victory.
Early power rankings reveal Texas Tech at the summit, with BYU and Houston close behind, while quarterback play, coaching changes and depth will shape the conference race.
As media days approach, analysts have released early power rankings for the Big 12, highlighting returning starters, coaching shifts and quarterback battles that could reshape the conference picture.
From Bill Snyder's early admiration of Manhattan's supportive residents to today's coaches who echo his belief in community, the Kansas State football program remains rooted in family and genuine connection.
With the 2026 season opening at home against LIU, Kansas aims to rebound from missed bowl games and end a long‑standing losing streak, as coach Lance Leipold and staff evaluate a three‑man quarterback race.
The NCAA's new age-based eligibility model grants a fifth season to players who enroll by age 19, giving senior quarterback Avery Johnson and his teammates a unique chance to extend their college careers and influence the team's strategy.