The 2026 college football season is set to captivate fans, with last year’s national champions, the Indiana Hoosiers, gearing up to defend their titles. As the first team in the modern era to achieve a 16-0 record, Indiana returns with 10 starters and a celebrated coach. Though their schedule appears manageable, Ohio State and Oregon lead the preseason AP Top 25 poll and are generating significant buzz.

Illinois

Bret Bielema, Illinois’ coach, reflects on critical moments that signaled a shift at Gies Memorial Stadium. The 2024 victory over Michigan, breaking a 14-game losing streak, was particularly memorable. In recent years, Illinois has increased fan engagement, selling out public season tickets consecutively. They seek to build on last season’s 19 wins, a program record.

Iowa

Kirk Ferentz enters his 28th season as Iowa’s head coach. The team, ranked No. 22, faces early challenges with conference games against Michigan, Ohio State, and Washington. Despite losing seven players to the NFL draft, Ferentz aims to guide Iowa to its 13th consecutive bowl appearance, excluding the 2020 pandemic year.

Indiana

Indiana, ranked sixth, faces a tough challenge replicating last season’s championship success. They must replace Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, the top NFL draft pick among eight school draftees. Josh Hoover takes over as quarterback, aiming to reduce turnovers in a team focused on a robust ground game. Their title defense begins against North Texas on September 5.

Maryland

Michael Locksley, Maryland’s coach, contends with back-to-back losing seasons following the departure of quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa. Malik Washington showed potential as a freshman, throwing for over 2,500 yards and rushing for more than 300. However, maintaining momentum throughout the season remains a concern.

Michigan

No. 16 Michigan faces a challenging season with six top-25 opponents. In Kyle Whittingham’s debut as coach, Bryce Underwood’s improvement is critical. Underwood seeks stability amid NCAA violations and the former coach’s arrest. Hired quarterback coach Koy Detmer is expected to guide Underwood, helping him capitalize on his potential.

Michigan State

Michigan State, under new coach Pat Fitzgerald, aims to avoid a fifth consecutive losing season. Both Fitzgerald and the team have much to prove, overcoming the negative fallout from the Mel Tucker firing and aiming for a better future.

Minnesota

Drake Lindsey, Minnesota’s quarterback, shines as a consistent team leader. The offensive strategy has diversified beyond run-pass options, making Gophers fans hopeful for further success. Over the last five years, Minnesota has achieved a 40-25 record, maintaining strong mid-pack standings in the Big Ten.

Nebraska

Nebraska’s Matt Rhule faces mounting pressure with a 19-19 record overall. His schedule this year includes games against Indiana, Oregon, and Ohio State, heightening the challenge. Anthony Colandrea, the 2025 Mountain West offensive player of the year, will need to adapt to the Big Ten’s formidable defenses.

Northwestern

Northwestern, with coach David Braun, seeks success building on recent improvements. New offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and the inauguration of Ryan Field present fresh opportunities. Despite a 19-19 record over three years, Braun draws confidence from Indiana’s success as a roadmap.

Ohio State

Ohio State enters the season as the preseason No. 1 team. With offensive stars Julian Sayin, Jeremiah Smith, and Bo Jackson, the team aims for a third straight College Football Playoff appearance. Despite a challenging schedule, their dynamic offense remains a key strength.

Oregon

With the highest preseason ranking in history, No. 2 Oregon seeks to capture their first championship. Dante Moore leads the charge, having passed for 3,565 yards and 30 touchdowns last season. Dan Lanning’s continued leadership fuels the team’s ambitions.

Penn State

Under Matt Campbell, No. 18 Penn State looks to revive its program. Campbell has retained key figures and sourced new talent from the transfer portal. The team retains 50 players, aiming to turn last season’s struggles into a platform for success.

Purdue

Purdue fans aspire to break an 18-game conference losing streak. Coach Barry Odom, now in his second year, seeks to rejuvenate the program amid modest expectations. While predictions place them 18th, optimism persists.

Rutgers

Rutgers faces a quarterback competition for the first time in three years. AJ Surace and Dylan Lonergan compete for starting duties in a ball-control offense. Key returning players like Antwan Raymond and KJ Duff will bolster their efforts.

UCLA

New coach Bob Chesney has sparked excitement for UCLA, transforming the roster with 62 new players and his engaging persona. Quarterback Nico Iamaleava will hope to thrive under Op. New leadership.

USC

USC, with coach Lincoln Riley, possesses talent and depth, aiming for College Football Playoff success. The Trojans balance veteran starters and high-profile transfers as Riley steers them toward achieving their postseason goals.

Washington

No. 17 Washington, under Jedd Fisch, remains an unpredictable force. Matches with top teams Indiana, Iowa, and Penn State test them. Demond Williams Jr.’s performance as quarterback will be crucial to their fortunes.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin hopes for a comeback from recent struggles, heavily investing in player recruitment. Their schedule omits direct clashes with last season’s top conference teams, offering a potential advantage.