Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of college football! We're about to dive into the top 25 teams for the 2026 season, and trust me, it's going to be a wild ride. But first, let's address the elephant in the room: the uncertainty surrounding team rosters. With the Transfer Portal closing, schools and fans alike are left in the dark, wondering who will be suiting up for their favorite teams. However, that doesn't stop us from speculating and predicting! On3, your trusted source for all things college football, is here to bring you our Way-Too-Early College Football Top 25 rankings.
Our panel of experts, including Chris Low, Brett McMurphy, Pete Nakos, JD PicKell, Andy Staples, and Ari Wasserman, has cast their votes, and the results are in! Four schools received first-place votes, and a total of 39 schools were considered. The top 14 teams in our rankings were a unanimous choice, with Ohio State leading the pack as the top choice of three of our experts. Georgia, Texas, and Notre Dame also received first-place votes, setting the stage for an intense battle for the top spot.
But here's where it gets controversial... Ohio State, with its star quarterback Julian Sayin and receiver Jeremiah Smith, is a strong contender. However, their defense took a hit, and the return of defensive end Kenyatta Jackson will be crucial. Can they overcome these challenges and maintain their dominance?
Georgia, under the guidance of Kirby Smart, is a force to be reckoned with. With quarterback Gunner Stockton leading the way and some key transfers joining the team, the Bulldogs are eyeing a College Football Playoff spot. Will they be able to make it happen, or will their rivals stand in their way?
Texas and Notre Dame also have their sights set high. Arch Manning, the hype machine, is back with Texas, and they've added some key players to their roster. Notre Dame, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back from a disappointing season and has retained some key players, including quarterback CJ Carr.
As we move down the list, Indiana, Oregon, Texas Tech, and Texas A&M are all poised to make a statement. Each team has its own unique story and strengths, and it's anyone's game at this point.
But wait, there's more! Miami, Oklahoma, Michigan, and LSU are all aiming to make their mark in the top 15. With new coaches, key transfers, and exciting developments, these teams are not to be underestimated.
And this is the part most people miss... the bottom half of our rankings is just as intriguing! BYU, Penn State, Ole Miss, and Utah are all looking to prove their worth and climb up the rankings. With new coaches, eligibility lawsuits, and portal hauls, these teams have a lot to offer and could surprise us all.
Last but not least, Alabama, Washington, USC, and Tennessee are rounding out our top 25. Despite some challenges and questions, these teams have the potential to make a strong impact.
So, there you have it! Our Way-Too-Early College Football Top 25 rankings are set, and the stage is now yours. What do you think of our predictions? Do you agree with our experts' choices? Feel free to voice your opinions and engage in some friendly debate in the comments section. Remember, these rankings are just the beginning, and the real excitement starts when the season kicks off! Get ready for an unforgettable college football season in 2026!
