With the college football season officially underway, following an offseason filled with legal discussions and legislative considerations, the path to the College Football Playoff National Championship in Las Vegas on January 25th has begun. This season marks the third iteration of the expanded 12-team CFP format, with the Big Ten conference having previously asserted its dominance. As teams vie for supremacy, predictions for both established favorites and potential dark horses are emerging, setting the stage for an electrifying competition.
The Big Ten has consistently performed well in the expanded playoff landscape. Ohio State, after securing the championship in 2024 and reaching the quarterfinals last year, enters this season as a strong favorite, boasting a formidable roster featuring star wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. Following their historic undefeated 2025 season, Indiana, despite losing Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza to the NFL, has replenished its talent under Coach Curt Cignetti, positioning them for a potential third consecutive title run. Oregon also remains a significant contender, with Heisman hopeful quarterback Dante Moore leading their charge to claim their first national championship.
Meanwhile, the SEC is eager to re-establish its dominance. Georgia, a perennial powerhouse, aims to return to the pinnacle of the sport after a quarterfinal exit last season. Texas, with projected No. 1 NFL Draft pick Arch Manning entering his senior year, is making an aggressive push for the title. Other SEC teams like LSU, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Alabama, and Texas A&M, all having made playoff appearances last season, are looking to build on their past successes.
Beyond the traditional powerhouses, several teams from outside the "Big 2" conferences are poised to make a run for the championship. Marcus Freeman's Notre Dame squad, motivated by being excluded from the playoffs last year, carries high expectations. Miami, which narrowly missed the title last season, has bolstered its roster with the addition of Darian Mensah, hoping to overcome their previous shortcomings. Even without Brendan Sorsby, Texas Tech's strong defensive unit is expected to lead them to another Big 12 title and make them a formidable opponent in the 12-team bracket.
This season, the Texas Longhorns are highlighted as the favorite. After a disappointing 10-3 campaign last year despite being a preseason No. 1, Head Coach Steve Sarkisian has strategically assembled a roster with significant NFL Draft potential, aiming to avoid a repeat performance. Quarterback Arch Manning, now with a full year of starting experience, is supported by new offensive talents like Cam Coleman, Hollywood Smothers, and Raleek Brown, alongside top tackle prospect Trevor Goosby. The defense is fortified by All-American edge rusher Colin Simmons, who recorded 12 sacks in 2025 and is now under the guidance of defensive coordinator Will Muschamp. Navigating a challenging SEC schedule will be key, but Texas's depth and talent make them a strong contender for the national title.
For a sleeper pick, the SMU Mustangs present an intriguing case. Since joining the ACC in 2024, SMU has shown consistent excellence, reaching the CFP in its inaugural ACC season and narrowly missing another conference title game last year. Quarterback Kevin Jennings, entering his third year as a starter, leads an offense with strong support from All-ACC tackle PJ Williams and a veteran offensive line. Their defense ranks impressively in the top 30 in preseason SP+, demonstrating a balanced and competitive team under Head Coach Rhett Lashlee. With a favorable schedule featuring only two ranked opponents (No. 2 Louisville and No. 4 Notre Dame), a strong start and a victory against Notre Dame could elevate SMU into serious contention.
As the college football season unfolds, the journey to the 2026 National Championship promises to be a thrilling one, with both established giants and aspiring underdogs battling for the ultimate prize. The expanded playoff format ensures a wider range of contenders, making each game and every performance crucial in determining who will ultimately lift the coveted trophy.
