Brett McMurphy's College Football Preseason AP Top 25 Breakdown (2026)

I present to you my Preseason AP Top 25 ballot, a ranking that will undoubtedly spark controversy and delight in equal measure. I've ranked Oregon No. 1, despite their recent struggles against top-tier opponents, and I predict they will finally break through for a national championship this year. The Ducks boast a talented roster and a strong coaching staff, with QB Dante Moore and a formidable defensive front. However, I'm not blind to their weaknesses, particularly against elite competition. Ohio State, led by the formidable Jeremiah Smith, is a close second, with a strong offense and a solid defensive front. But I'm wary of their late-season trend of losing crucial games, which could derail their playoff hopes. Georgia, the defending national champion, is ranked third, with a strong offense and a solid defense. However, I'm concerned about their recent playoff struggles and the leadership transition at the quarterback position. Notre Dame, with a stacked defense and a Heisman-worthy QB, is ranked fourth, but their schedule is a potential landmine. Texas Tech, with a talented roster and a strong coaching staff, is ranked fifth, but their recent transfer drama and the loss of their starting QB could be a setback. Texas, with a talented offense and a feared defense, is ranked sixth, but their challenging schedule could be a hurdle. Indiana, with a strong coaching staff and a talented roster, is ranked seventh, but I'm concerned about regression after their recent success. Miami, with a strong offense and a talented coaching staff, is ranked eighth, but their lack of ACC titles is a concern. Ole Miss, with a strong offense and a solid defense, is ranked ninth, but their coaching transition could be a challenge. Washington, with a strong offense and a solid defense, is ranked tenth, but their road struggles in the Big Ten could be a problem. The rest of the rankings are as follows: Texas A&M, Oklahoma, BYU, Michigan, LSU, SMU, Utah, Penn State, Houston, Alabama, Louisville, Tennessee, Arizona, Iowa, and USC.

Brett McMurphy's College Football Preseason AP Top 25 Breakdown (2026)
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