College football experiences the longest offseason of any major sport. For over seven months, anticipation builds as coaches, rosters, and programs are scrutinized. When the season starts, many expectations face challenges; surprises arise, and unexpected teams capture attention.

This season, the spotlight shines on first-year head coaches making swift impacts. Take Florida, for example, under Jon Sumrall’s leadership. The team has transformed into a tough, intelligent contender. Offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner orchestrates a creative offense featuring Jadan Baugh, a leading running back. Already, Florida equals its total wins from 2025 and ranks in the top ten, a position it hasn’t held in five years. This success began to take shape when Florida was notably ranked 25th in my preseason poll, showing belief in Sumrall’s vision.

In Week 4, players like Dylan Raiola emerged crucial for Oregon, Jon Sumrall’s reputation elevated with Florida’s home victory over Ole Miss, and Jeremiah Smith had a potential Heisman moment. Additionally, UCLA, Oklahoma State, and Kentucky’s first-year coaches deliver successes, earning them new positions in the rankings.

Bob Chesney’s UCLA boasts three victories against Power 4 teams, including two on the road. This echoes a familiar pattern where former James Madison coaches find success in major conferences. Similarly, Eric Morris impacts Oklahoma State by bringing in key players from North Texas. Drew Mestemaker, quarterback, played a pivotal role in the shocking win over Oregon, aiding their rapid resurgence.

Predicting contenders for December’s titles or playoff spots remains uncertain. However, these teams craft compelling narratives worth celebrating.

Stray thoughts/observations:

• Wake Forest has two road wins over Power 4 teams, including defeating a ranked Louisville. Their loss to Miami is promising compared to others and suggests they should be ranked.
• The outcome of Pitt versus Virginia Tech could see the winner ranked, assuming fellow voters acknowledge the significance of ACC games.
• In the Big 12, Utah stands out more to me than to others. Despite limited visibility, their dominant performance under Morgan Scalley deserves recognition. Attention may increase when they play Houston on October 24.
• Head-to-head results heavily influence my AP ballot. Oklahoma State’s comparison with Oregon exemplifies the challenges faced. Despite Oklahoma State’s earlier win against Oregon, current resumes differ significantly due to Oregon’s win against USC and Tulsa’s impact on Oklahoma State’s record.