The 2026 college football season is upon us, and the excitement is palpable as teams gear up for training camp. Phil Steele's preseason poll has been released, ranking all 138 college football teams, and it's a fascinating insight into the upcoming season. The top spot goes to Notre Dame, who are looking to build on their 10-2 record from last year and make a run at the College Football Playoff.
What makes this particularly intriguing is the team's ability to return key players, including quarterback CJ Carr and cornerback Leonard Moore. The Irish have also made significant strides in recruiting, landing the No. 2-ranked class in the nation, according to the Rivals Industry Team Recruiting Rankings. This combination of returning talent and fresh recruits has the potential to make Notre Dame a force to be reckoned with.
Following Notre Dame, Oregon takes the No. 2 spot, with quarterback Dante Moore returning for another season in Eugene. The Ducks' ability to retain talent and bring in new recruits, such as Koi Perich from Minnesota, positions them as a top contender. Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas also make the top five, with strong returning quarterbacks and talented defenses.
The poll reveals a wide range of contenders, with surprises throughout. Indiana, Oklahoma, and Ole Miss are also in the top 10, with notable additions through the transfer portal. Miami, USC, and Alabama round out the top 10, with high-level returners and impressive recruiting classes.
As the season unfolds, the battle for the top spot will be fierce, with many teams vying for the championship. The poll highlights the importance of returning talent, successful recruiting, and strategic use of the transfer portal. It's a reminder that in college football, anything can happen, and the season is far from over until the final whistle.
In my opinion, the 2026 season promises to be an exciting one, with a deep field of talented teams. The battle for the top spot will be intense, and the season will likely come down to a few key games. As an expert analyst, I'm eager to see how the teams perform and who will rise to the top. The college football world is abuzz with anticipation, and the excitement is palpable as we count down the days until the season begins.
