College Football's Future: 10 Bold Predictions for 2026
The college football landscape is ever-changing, and with the transfer portal and new coaches, the 2026 season promises to be an exciting one. While it's still early days, I'm here to offer my expert analysis and predictions for the upcoming year. From rising stars to potential upsets, let's dive into 10 bold predictions that will shape the 2026 college football season.
1. The Rise of Tanook Hines: A Biletnikoff Finalist
Tanook Hines, a true freshman at USC last season, already showed immense talent with 34 catches for 561 yards and two scores. With the departure of Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane, Hines is poised to step up and become the top receiver in Los Angeles. His connection with quarterback Jayden Maiava and his own next-level speed make him a strong contender for the Biletnikoff Award. In my opinion, he has the potential to match Lemon's numbers from last season, and I predict he will be a Biletnikoff finalist in 2026.
2. LSU's Offense Reaches 2019 Levels
LSU's offense has been lacking firepower since the days of Joe Burrow, Justin Jefferson, and Ja'Marr Chase. However, with Lane Kiffin's arrival, the Tigers could see an offense nearly as high-flying as the legendary 2019 team. Kiffin has brought in a talented group of receivers, including Trey'Dez Green and transfers like Eugene Wilson III and Winston Watkins. The depth of this receiver group, combined with a strong running back duo and veteran experience at quarterback, makes LSU a force to be reckoned with. I predict their offense will operate at an Ole Miss-esque level right away.
3. Boise State Returns to the CFP with a G5 Bid
Boise State had a down year in 2025, but they are set to regroup in 2026. With the return of quarterback Maddux Madsen and a formidable running back duo, the Broncos' offense should be strong. Additionally, they return five starters on defense, which is crucial in the transfer portal era. While their non-conference schedule is tough, a Pac-12 title and a CFP return are within reach. I predict Boise State will make a strong case for a G5 bid and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
4. Ohio State Loses Three Regular Season Games
Ohio State has not lost more than two games in a season since 2011, but I predict they will drop three regular-season games in 2026. The Buckeyes' defense, which was historically good in year one under Matt Patricia, is primed to fall off due to the loss of key players. Their schedule, which includes six losable games, makes a return to the Big Ten championship game unlikely. I think we will see the Buckeyes drop three regular-season games for the first time in 15 years.
5. Michigan Returns to the College Football Playoff
After the Sherrone Moore fiasco, Michigan hired Kyle Whittingham, a proven leader. With a fresh coaching staff and a talented roster, the Wolverines are set to make a strong run. Sophomore quarterback Bryce Underwood showed flashes of greatness, and the run game will be a strength. The schedule features tough games, but with a coaching staff and roster in place, I predict Michigan will win four of those six and return to the CFP.
6. BYU Wins the Big 12 and Earns a CFP Bid
BYU has been a consistent contender under Kalani Sitake, and in 2026, they are set to make a strong push for the CFP. With the return of quarterback Bear Bachmeier and a talented running back duo, the Cougars' offense is strong. Their defense returns starters at every level, and they have added key transfers. While their biggest game is against Notre Dame, their schedule is manageable, and I predict BYU will win the Big 12 and earn their first-ever CFP bid.
7. Pete Golding and Ole Miss Blow Out Lane Kiffin and LSU
The game of the year will be when Lane Kiffin returns to Oxford to take on his former team, Ole Miss. The energy in the stadium will be electric, and I predict an ugly end for the Tigers. Pete Golding's defense will be ready to call the shots, and star linebacker Suntarine Perkins will be a key player. Ole Miss has college football's biggest weapon in kicker Lucas Carneiro, and I predict they will blow out LSU in this highly anticipated matchup.
8. Lotzeir Brooks Surpasses Ryan Williams as Alabama's WR1
Ryan Williams had a down season in 2025, with an alarming 18.9% drop rate. However, Lotzeir Brooks, a true freshman at Alabama last season, showcased elite playmaking ability. Brooks stepped up in crucial moments and has the potential to continue earning targets. With a year of experience, I predict he will surpass Williams as the go-to target for the Crimson Tide.
9. Notre Dame-Miami is an Undefeated Matchup
At the surface level, this doesn't seem like a hot take, but I predict Notre Dame and Miami will be 8-0 when they face off in early November. Mario Cristobal has made smart moves in the transfer portal, and Miami will be a force with a superstar quarterback and a talented receiver group. Notre Dame, led by Marcus Freeman, returns a ton of key players and a stacked defense. This matchup could define the season for both teams, and I predict it will be an undefeated showdown.
10. Texas Wins the National Championship
Texas, led by Steve Sarkisian, is set to make a strong run at the national championship. With Arch Manning, who visibly improved over the course of the 2025 season, and a talented receiver trio, the Longhorns' offense is strong. The run game will be improved with key transfers, and the defense returns a star EDGE rusher and a standout sophomore corner. While they will be tested early on, I predict Texas will be battle-tested by the time the CFP rolls around and will emerge as a legitimate title contender.
These bold predictions offer a glimpse into the future of college football, and I can't wait to see how the season unfolds. From rising stars to potential upsets, the 2026 season promises to be an exciting one. Stay tuned for more analysis and insights as we count down to kickoff!
