
Six Teams Poised to Break New Ground in the 2026 College Football Playoff
A look at the programs, key players and structural changes that could deliver the first-ever playoff appearances for several college football teams in 2026.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Gary Patterson across Football.

A look at the programs, key players and structural changes that could deliver the first-ever playoff appearances for several college football teams in 2026.

A look at the key newcomers and strategic shifts that could propel the USC Trojans to a historic playoff run.

USC's 2026 recruiting class tops the nation, but analyst Greg McElroy warns that the Trojans must turn that talent into playoff contention, a task complicated by a tough road slate and defensive uncertainties under new head coach Lincoln Riley.

After a decade away from the sidelines, veteran coach Gary Patterson rejoins college football as USC’s defensive coordinator, bringing a storied legacy and a hands‑on approach to a program seeking defensive renewal.

USC’s 2026 campaign hinges on a revitalized running game, a fortified defense and an elite offensive line, all orchestrated by coach Lincoln Riley as the Trojans aim for their first College Football Playoff appearance.

Former TCU defensive mastermind Gary Patterson joins USC in 2025, bringing a film‑driven scheme, a rebuilt staff and a commitment to player development that could finally transform the Trojans’ defense under Lincoln Riley.

After missing spring practice with injuries, USC's key cornerbacks are now cleared for fall camp, joining a secondary that aims to anchor the Trojans' title aspirations.

Gary Patterson, celebrated for turning TCU into a defensive powerhouse, now faces the task of reshaping USC’s defense to compete in the physically demanding Big Ten.

A new general manager, a Hall of Fame defensive coordinator, and a state‑of‑the‑art facility signal USC's aggressive push toward playoff contention.
A look at the top‑ranked teams, key players and schedule challenges shaping the upcoming college football landscape.

Lincoln Riley enters his fifth season at USC with a roster built for title contention, but a demanding schedule and a revamped defense under Gary Patterson pose significant challenges.

The 2026 college football landscape is shaped by emerging talents and transformative hires across major conferences, each poised to impact their teams' title aspirations.

The USC Trojans, led by coach Lincoln Riley, are poised to return to the College Football Playoff in 2026, driven by returning star quarterback Jayden Maiava and a challenging schedule that includes key matchups against Oregon, Ohio State, Penn State and Indiana.

The University of Southern California's football program is preparing for the 2026 season, with fall practice set to begin on July 31. The early start is driven by a non‑conference game against San Jose State, and the roster features returning starters, high‑profile recruits, and a new defensive coordinator.

With the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class, quarterback Jayden Maiava’s returning production and a revamped defense led by Hall of Fame coordinator Gary Patterson, the Trojans are poised to turn early momentum into a playoff‑ready campaign.

At the Big Ten Football Media Days in Chicago, USC head coach Lincoln Riley outlined the team’s ambitions, citing a top recruiting class and the potential of quarterback Jayden Maiava for Heisman consideration.

USC coach Lincoln Riley outlined his vision for a playoff‑ready Trojans squad, emphasizing strategic hires, quarterback progress and the potential return of the USC‑Notre Dame rivalry.

With a loaded recruiting class and a debut in the Big Ten, USC aims to translate preseason optimism into on‑field production

The Horned Frogs will open their 2026 campaign against the University of North Carolina in Dublin on August 29, highlighting former star Travin Howard in a series that celebrates the days until kickoff.

The latest Big Ten preseason poll highlights a tight race among Ohio State, Oregon and Indiana, with key players and coaching changes shaping expectations across the conference.

A deep dive into the 2026 USC Trojans football outlook, examining the offense led by quarterback Jayden Maiava, the revamped defense, and the upcoming showdown with Rutgers.

The Trojans will open their 2026 schedule against Rutgers in Piscataway, New Jersey, aiming to build on a 9‑4 campaign and a revamped defense under Gary Patterson.

TCU will open its 2026 season against North Carolina in Dublin, Ireland, and the Countdown to Kickoff series highlights former player Kendre Miller, whose jersey number matches the days remaining until the game.

A look at the coaches whose jobs hang in the balance, the programs they steer, and the storylines that could reshape the 2026 college football landscape.