The 2025 College Football Season Concludes with a New Beginning

The 2025 college football season concluded after hundreds of games over six months, with Indiana emerging victorious in the College Football Playoff championship game against Miami. This victory in Miami Gardens, Florida, marks the end of one chapter and the start of another: the anticipation for the 2026 season. As teams begin to plan for the next year, the landscape is constantly shifting due to the transfer portal and other factors that influence team rosters.

Key Considerations for the 2026 Season

Assembling a top 25 ranking for the 2026 season is a challenging task given the fluid nature of team compositions. However, there are several standout programs that are expected to compete for national titles. The presence of high-profile quarterbacks and strong coaching staffs plays a significant role in determining which teams will be in contention.

Top Quarterbacks to Watch

Several quarterbacks are set to make an impact in the 2026 season:

• Arch Manning (Texas): Returning for his second season as a starter.
• Julian Sayin (Ohio State): A key player on the offensive side.
• Gunner Stockton (Georgia): Expected to lead the offense.
• CJ Carr (Notre Dame): Emerging as a reliable starter.
• Dante Moore (Oregon): A junior who has shown promise.

In addition, Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State) is expected to be one of the best wide receivers in the country, entering what could be his final season.

The Top 25 Teams for 2026

Here is a look at the top 25 teams expected to compete in the 2026 season, along with their 2025 records:

1. Texas (10-3)

2. Texas has added several offensive weapons to support Arch Manning, including Cam Coleman and Hollywood Smothers. The defense, led by Will Muschamp, brings in Rasheem Biles and features Colin Simmons as a standout pass rusher.

3. Ohio State (12-2)

4. Ohio State remains a preseason favorite in the Big Ten, with Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith leading the offense. The defense adds Terry Moore and Dominick Kelly, ensuring it stays among the best in the FBS.

5. Georgia (12-2)

6. Georgia’s offense returns Gunner Stockton and Nate Frazier. The defense, anchored by Raylen Wilson and KJ Bolden, is expected to remain strong despite some rebuilding needs.

7. Indiana (16-0)

8. After winning its first national title, Indiana is poised to remain competitive. Key additions include Josh Hoover and A.J. Harris, making the Hoosiers a formidable team.

9. Notre Dame (10-2)

10. CJ Carr has emerged as a reliable quarterback, and the offense includes Jordan Faison and Quincy Porter. The defense, led by Bryce Young, is expected to be strong.

1. Oklahoma (10-3)

2. Oklahoma aims to build on its playoff appearance. John Mateer will have more weapons, including Hayden Hansen and Trell Harris, while the defense gets a boost from PJ Adebawore.

3. Texas Tech (12-2)

4. The Red Raiders are expected to maintain their dominance in the Big 12. Brendan Sorsby will lead the offense, supported by veteran players like Terrance Carter Jr.

5. Texas A&M (11-2)

6. Marcel Reed will continue as the starting quarterback, with Mario Craver and Isaiah Horton providing support. The Aggies aim to improve their performance in key matchups.

7. Oregon (13-2)

8. Oregon faces challenges but has the potential to rebound. Dante Moore’s return is crucial, and the defense benefits from Bear Alexander and Koi Perich.

9. Miami (13-3)

   • Miami is expected to sign Darian Mensah soon. The defense adds Jarquez Carter and Omar Thornton, while the offense looks to rebuild.

1. Alabama (11-4)

   • Kalen DeBoer faces pressure to improve after two losing seasons. Austin Mack and Keelon Russell will compete for the quarterback position, while the offense seeks to improve.

2. Southern California (11-2)

   • USC’s return of Jaydan Maiava and additions like Jontez Williams and Terrell Anderson provide optimism. The Trojans face a tough schedule but have a deep roster.

3. Brigham Young (12-2)

   • BYU’s return of Kalani Sitake and the development of Bear Bachmeier give the Cougars confidence. The team also adds Cade Uluave and Paki Finau through the portal.

4. Michigan (9-4)

   • Kyle Whittingham takes over, focusing on Bryce Underwood’s growth. The defense shows promise with John Henry Daley and Smith Snowden.

5. LSU (7-6)

   • Lane Kiffin aims to stabilize the program with Sam Leavitt as the quarterback. The team adds several transfers, including Jayce Brown and Tre Brown.

6. SMU (9-4)

   • SMU’s strong transfer class, led by Marques White and Kendrick Raphael, helps the team maintain its success. Kevin Jennings is expected to be one of the nation’s best quarterbacks.

7. Penn State (7-6)

   • Matt Campbell’s debut under new leadership is promising. The Nittany Lions benefit from Iowa State transfers like Rocco Becht and Chase Sowell.

8. Utah (11-2)

   • Morgan Scalley takes over, and Devon Dampier returns as a key player. Elijah Reed adds depth to the defense.

9. Clemson (7-6)

   • Christopher Vizzina steps into the quarterback role, with the team adding London Merritt and Corey Myrick. Dabo Swinney aims to rebuild the program.

10. Mississippi (13-2)

    • Pete Golding leads the charge, with Deuce Knight joining Trinidad Chambliss. The defense adds Jordan Renaud and Blake Purchase.

11. Iowa (9-4)

    • Losing 27 seniors presents challenges, but Jeremy Hecklinski is the early favorite for the quarterback spot. The offensive line is expected to be strong.

12. Florida State (5-7)

    • The Seminoles look to rebound with transfers like Tre Wisner and Ashton Daniels. Gus Malzahn’s coaching should help the team improve.

13. Houston (10-3)

    • Houston’s strong transfer class includes Anthony Boswell and Makhi Hughes. Conner Weigman and Amare Thomas are key players.

14. Tennessee (8-5)

    • George McIntyre is the current favorite for the quarterback position. The defense adds Chaz Coleman and Jordan Norman.

15. Boise State (9-5)

    • The Broncos are strong contenders for the Group of Five playoff berth. Maddux Madsen returns as the starting quarterback, and the defense is led by Jayden Virgin-Morgan.