Here is our 2026 college football preseason Top 25: a full projected ranking heading into the season, plus a free printable. Ohio State leads the way, with Oregon, Notre Dame, and Indiana close behind at the top of a Big Ten and SEC-heavy board. Rankings are our opinion and will move fast once the games start.
2026 College Football Preseason Top 25
| Rank | Team | Conference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ohio State | Big Ten |
| 2 | Oregon | Big Ten |
| 3 | Notre Dame | Independent |
| 4 | Indiana | Big Ten |
| 5 | Georgia | SEC |
| 6 | Texas | SEC |
| 7 | Miami | ACC |
| 8 | Texas A&M | SEC |
| 9 | Texas Tech | Big 12 |
| 10 | Ole Miss | SEC |
| 11 | LSU | SEC |
| 12 | Oklahoma | SEC |
| 13 | BYU | Big 12 |
| 14 | Michigan | Big Ten |
| 15 | Alabama | SEC |
| 16 | Penn State | Big Ten |
| 17 | USC | Big Ten |
| 18 | Utah | Big 12 |
| 19 | Washington | Big Ten |
| 20 | Iowa | Big Ten |
| 21 | Arizona | Big 12 |
| 22 | Tennessee | SEC |
| 23 | Missouri | SEC |
| 24 | Louisville | ACC |
| 25 | Clemson | ACC |
This is our projection, built from returning production, roster talent, and the futures market, not an official poll. The Big Ten and SEC dominate the board, and in the 12-team Playoff era, being in the top dozen is what really matters. For the market read, see our 2026 college football odds and Playoff futures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is No. 1 in the 2026 preseason Top 25?
Ohio State tops our 2026 preseason projection, with Oregon, Notre Dame, and Indiana all in the mix for the top spot.
When is the first AP Top 25 of 2026 released?
The first official AP Top 25 poll of the 2026 season is released in mid-August, before Week 0. This is our projection ahead of it.
How many SEC and Big Ten teams are ranked?
The SEC and Big Ten dominate the projection, combining for well over half of the Top 25, a reflection of the two leagues’ depth.
Is there a printable Top 25?
Yes. Download the free printable 2026 preseason Top 25 from the button near the top of this page.
More 2026 College Football
- 2026 College Football Odds (conference + national title)
- 2026 Heisman Trophy Odds
- 2026 College Football Schedule Hub
