The college football world is buzzing with anticipation as the 2026 season looms, and our panel of experts has weighed in with their predictions and insights. From overrated and underrated teams to playoff contenders and individual award winners, let's dive into the fascinating landscape of college football's future.
Overrated and Underrated Teams
Overrated:
- Texas A&M: Despite a strong 2025 season, the Aggies face a challenging road ahead. With key coordinator departures and a tough schedule, they might not live up to their top-10 ranking.
- LSU: The hype around Lane Kiffin and their transfer class is understandable, but history shows that quick fixes are rare. Sam Leavitt's injury and the SEC's competitiveness make LSU's path to the top uncertain.
- Indiana: While still a top-15 team, Indiana's national title-winning roster has undergone significant turnover. Replacing key players like Fernando Mendoza will be a tall order, and they may struggle to contend in the Big Ten.
Underrated:
- Houston: The Cougars have a solid transfer in Makhi Hughes and a reliable quarterback in Conner Weigman. With Patrick Overmyer potentially making an impact at tight end, Houston could surprise many this season.
- Louisville: The Isaac and Keyjuan Brown duo in the backfield is a force to be reckoned with. If quarterback Lincoln Kienholz can live up to his potential under coach Jeff Brohm's guidance, Louisville could dominate the ACC.
- Washington: Jedd Fisch has a knack for overachieving, and with Demond Williams at quarterback, the Huskies could be a dark horse in the Big Ten. A strong front seven and a talented roster make them a team to watch.
College Football Playoff Predictions
Our experts predict a wide-open field for the College Football Playoff, with Notre Dame, Oregon, Georgia, and Miami (Fla.) leading the way as top-four seeds. Indiana, Texas, Ohio State, and Texas Tech are also expected to make a strong push. The Big 12 is seen as more open at the top, with SMU and Kansas State potentially sneaking into the playoff picture.
National Champion and Individual Awards
National Champion:
- Ohio State: With a talented leadership core and a tough schedule, the Buckeyes are predicted to make a deep playoff run. Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith, both Heisman contenders, could be the X-factors in their quest for a second title in three years.
- Oregon: Dan Lanning's recruiting prowess, combined with a stacked roster and a solid coaching staff, makes Oregon the deepest and best team in college football. Dante Moore's return and a strong defense put them in prime position to claim the title.
- Notre Dame: Marcus Freeman's roster is built for championship success, with an elite offense and defense. CJ Carr's potential Heisman-caliber campaign and a manageable schedule make the Fighting Irish a strong contender.
- Texas: This Texas team is loaded with talent and has the potential to be the best since the mid-2000s. Arch Manning, surrounded by top-notch transfers, could lead the Longhorns to their first national title in over a decade.
- Indiana: The defending national champions are still a force to be reckoned with. While they may not get as much love this offseason, their coaching staff and a challenging regular season could set them up for another title run.
Coach of the Year:
- Marcus Freeman: If Notre Dame goes 12-0 and secures a top-four seed, Freeman will be a strong contender for Coach of the Year, especially with a manageable regular-season schedule.
- Dan Lanning: Oregon's best roster in program history, led by Lanning, could propel them to the national title and earn Lanning this prestigious award.
- Curt Cignetti: If Indiana repeats as national champions, Cignetti's name will be in the conversation for one of the greatest coaches of all time.
- Mario Cristobal: Miami's potential unbeaten season and CFP appearance could earn Cristobal ACC Coach of the Year honors.
- Jedd Fisch: If Washington navigates their tough schedule and makes a dark horse CFP case, Fisch's name will be on everyone's lips for COTY.
Heisman Trophy Winner:
- Darian Mensah: Miami's talented quarterback is expected to check all the boxes for a Heisman win: wins, production, and big-stage performances. His efficiency and the Hurricanes' success could edge him ahead of other contenders.
- CJ Carr: Notre Dame's CJ Carr is ready to shine as the most outstanding player in college football. With a potential 12-0 season, he could become the first Notre Dame Heisman winner in decades.
- Arch Manning: Arch Manning, the third-generation Manning quarterback, is poised to break the family's Heisman curse. With a talented receiving corps and a challenging schedule, he could lead Texas to the playoff and claim the Heisman.
- Julian Sayin: Ohio State's historically efficient quarterback is a strong contender, especially with a challenging schedule that provides big-game opportunities.
- Dante Moore: Oregon's efficient quarterback, with a veteran crew, is expected to show out against a schedule filled with Heisman moments.
As we eagerly await the 2026 season, these predictions and insights provide a glimpse into the exciting future of college football. Who will rise to the top, and who will fall short? Only time will tell.
