
Six Power Four Programs Emerge as 2026 Wild‑Card Contenders
CBS Sports’ Austin Nivison identifies six Power Four teams with unresolved questions that could reshape the 2026 championship picture.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Demond Williams Jr. across Football.

CBS Sports’ Austin Nivison identifies six Power Four teams with unresolved questions that could reshape the 2026 championship picture.

Projected win‑loss records reveal a handful of teams eyeing national titles, while several programs face steep challenges, setting the stage for a dramatic season.

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

Phil Steele predicts a three‑way tie at the top of the Big Ten for 2026, with Ohio State, Indiana and Oregon projected to share the conference lead and chase a fourth consecutive national title.
Despite being overlooked by most Heisman discussions, a handful of players carry notable long‑shot odds, reflecting both their talent and the fierce competition they face.
Head coach Jedd Fisch outlines the financial hurdles as the Huskies aim to keep key players and remain a playoff contender, with the transfer portal set to open in January.

EA Sports' upcoming College Football 27 has generated buzz with its latest roster ratings, highlighting Iowa's strengths while flagging quarterback development as a key storyline

After a 9‑4 season and a top‑tier defense, the Huskies are counting on new talent and quarterback Demond Williams Jr. to contend in a tough Big Ten schedule.

A deep bond between Washington’s head coach and his star quarterback drives the Huskies’ offensive plans, from recruitment decisions to spring‑ball preparations and upcoming matchups against ranked opponents.

The USC Trojans confront a demanding October slate, featuring marquee matchups against Washington, Penn State, Wisconsin and Ohio State, with the final game against the Buckeyes poised to shape conference titles, postseason routes and individual accolades.

Ranked No. 25 by CFB HQ, Sam Leavitt returns from a Lisfranc injury to lead LSU’s revamped offense, backed by a strong supporting cast and a season‑opening showdown with Clemson.

The Huskies aim to translate recent success into a playoff berth, relying on quarterback Demond Williams Jr. and coach Jedd Fisch to navigate a challenging schedule

The Oregon Ducks' top‑ranked defense will test its mettle against four standout quarterbacks in the 2026 season, each presenting a unique challenge.

Washington Huskies sophomore John Mills was selected to the preseason Second Team All‑America by Phil Steele, underscoring his emerging role and the line’s depth heading into fall camp.

John Mills, a sophomore offensive lineman for the Washington Huskies, was named to Phil Steele’s preseason Second Team All‑America, highlighting his versatility and strong pass‑blocking grade.

The Huskies are expected to finish 9‑3 in 2026, but road defeats at USC, Oregon and Indiana could keep them out of the College Football Playoff.

The Trojans must navigate a demanding schedule and a revamped defense to break the Big Ten's recent national champion streak.

The Iowa Hawkeyes, ranked No. 19 nationally and No. 7 in the Big Ten, are among a group of teams poised for a Playoff run, with coach Kirk Ferentz eyeing his first appearance.

A wave of top‑rated recruits have visited Seattle, signaling a aggressive push by the Huskies to shape their next‑generation roster.

Penn State enters a new era under Matt Campbell while the Big Ten's competitive landscape reshapes with top‑tier powerhouses, mid‑tier contenders, and a wave of roster changes across the league.

Washington climbs to No. 15 nationally and fifth in the Big Ten, fueled by a defense poised for a top‑ten rise and a quarterback who stayed, while new talent bolsters the offense
Three‑star quarterback Caden Jones arrived in Seattle this week, sparking renewed optimism in the Huskies’ effort to secure a future signal‑caller amid a crowded field of suitors.

Indiana leads the latest preseason top 25, with Oregon, Ohio State and a host of other programs rounding out the early rankings. Key players and coaching storylines promise a competitive year.

The Huskies' 2026 campaign hinges on replacing departed stars while emerging players and transfers aim to keep the program’s recent success alive.