The 2026 college football season is upon us, and the excitement is palpable as teams gear up for training camp. The highly anticipated preseason poll from Phil Steele has been released, ranking all 138 college football teams from 1 to 138. This year's rankings offer a glimpse into the potential contenders and underdogs, with some surprises and familiar faces alike.
One of the most notable teams in the poll is Notre Dame, who sits atop the rankings after a strong showing last year. The Irish return key players like quarterback CJ Carr and cornerback Leonard Moore, and their recent recruiting success, landing the No. 2-ranked class in the nation, further cements their status as a top contender. The hype is building around Marcus Freeman's program, and all eyes are on their performance this season.
Oregon, ranked No. 2, is another team to watch. The Ducks' return of quarterback Dante Moore and their impressive recruiting efforts, including the addition of Koi Perich from Minnesota, make them a force to be reckoned with. The team's run to the College Football Playoff last year has given them a boost, and they are poised to make a deep playoff run again.
Georgia, ranked No. 3, also returns its quarterback, Gunner Stockton, who helped the Bulldogs secure an SEC title and a top-7 finish in the Heisman Trophy voting. The team's stout defense and SEC dominance make them a top contender in the conference.
Ohio State, ranked No. 4, is another team that made a strong showing last year and has reloaded well. With quarterback Julian Sayin and standout receiver Jeremiah Smith returning, the Buckeyes are ready to challenge for a national championship once again.
Texas, ranked No. 5, is facing high expectations after a strong showing in 2025. The Longhorns have bolstered their offense with playmakers and are looking to level up their defense with new coordinator Will Muschamp. The team's late-season surge and impressive recruiting efforts make them a top contender in the Big 12.
Indiana, ranked No. 6, is another team that reloaded through the transfer portal and is aiming for a repeat national championship. With notable additions like TCU transfer Josh Hoover, the Hoosiers are looking to maintain their dominance in the Big Ten.
Oklahoma, ranked No. 7, had an impressive turnaround last year and is now led by quarterback John Mateer. The Sooners' vaunted defense, including defensive lineman David Stone and linebacker Owen Heinecke, makes them a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12.
Ole Miss, ranked No. 8, is another team that made a strong showing in the playoff semifinals last year. With Pete Golding taking over for Lane Kiffin and quarterback Trinidad Chambliss returning, the Rebels are looking to build on their success and make a deep playoff run.
Miami, ranked No. 9, had a strong showing in the national championship last season and is looking to build on that success. With high-level returners on offense and a new quarterback in Duke transfer Darian Mensah, the Hurricanes are poised to make a deep playoff run.
USC, ranked No. 10, is another team that had a strong showing last year and is looking to build on that success. With quarterback Jayden Maiava returning and a top-ranked recruiting class, the Trojans are a force to be reckoned with in the Pac-12.
The rest of the rankings offer a mix of familiar faces and surprises. Teams like Alabama, Texas A&M, and Michigan are among the top 25, while others like Utah, Wisconsin, and Pitt are making their mark in the rankings. The season promises to be an exciting one, with teams vying for conference titles and playoff spots.
As the media days circuit begins and training camp approaches, the college football season is just around the corner. The excitement and anticipation are palpable as teams gear up for the upcoming season, and the rankings provide a glimpse into the potential contenders and underdogs. The race for the top spot is on, and the competition is fierce.
