Ohio State Leads 2026 Preseason Poll
Ohio State leads the 2026 AP Top 25, but recent losses raise questions about their championship prospects.
The update
Ohio State opens the 2026 college football season as the No. 1 team in the AP Top 25 preseason poll. Oregon and Georgia follow in the top three spots. The poll reflects a crowded group of contenders with championship-caliber rosters.
Why it matters
Preseason rankings are a snapshot of roster talent and expectations, not a prediction of the final outcome. However, the top tier of teams—Ohio State, Oregon, Georgia, Notre Dame, Texas, Indiana, and Miami—share a common trait: each returns a starting quarterback with at least one full season of experience. This continuity is often a key factor in playoff success.
What to watch
While Ohio State is ranked first, the gap between the top seven teams is narrow. Analysts note that Ohio State’s 2025 season included a win over Michigan but subsequent losses to Indiana and Miami. The expanded playoff format adds another layer of strategy, as teams must balance regular-season dominance with the physical demands of a longer postseason run.
Sources
- Yahoo Sports — Ohio State leading the 2026 AP Top 25 and context on the Buckeyes' season outlook.
- cbssports.com — Analysis of the top seven teams' quarterback situation and playoff potential.
