Anticipation for the College Football Season
The onset of the college football season can be felt with the release of preseason polls. This week, the USA Today Coaches Poll was published, sparking debates among fans regarding team rankings and the significance of preseason polls.
While the poll isn’t perfect, there are teams outside the top-12 likely to make the College Football Playoff in 2026. Here are three teams poised for remarkable performances.
LSU Tigers: Ready for Success
Preseason Rank: 13
Despite ranking 13th, the LSU Tigers possess qualities suggesting they will reach the playoffs. Lane Kiffin’s leadership rapidly transformed LSU into strong contenders. Yet, it’s not solely about the head coach.
Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. and defensive coordinator Blake Baker are among the most recognized in college football. Their participation on preseason Broyles Award watchlists seems likely.
With a reported $40 million roster, including top-ranked transfer portal players, LSU has considerable resources. The team appears unlikely to fly under anyone’s radar.
Kiffin acknowledges high expectations, and a playoff appearance is crucial for maintaining support in his first year.
SMU Mustangs: On the Rise
Preseason Rank: 20
The SMU Mustangs surprised many by making the playoffs during their initial ACC season. Although they faltered slightly in 2025, they narrowly missed repeating their playoffs success.
Losing closely, such as the double-overtime game with Baylor, reveals the potential to return as ACC representatives.
Returning production ranks the Mustangs inside the top-25. Key players like quarterback Kevin Jennings bring valuable experience.
The 2026 conference schedule favors them, sidestepping Miami and Clemson. An ACC Championship Game against Miami is possible, and SMU previously defeated Miami despite being less talented. Head coach Rhett Lashlee’s strategic depth in one-game situations is notable.
Houston Cougars: A Bold Contender
Preseason Rank: 24
Endorsing the Houston Cougars as Big 12 champions, they present themselves as playoff contenders due to their impressive performance and experienced lineup. Ranking 17th in returning production nationwide and top-ten offensively, their potential shines.
Adding Makhi Hughes from the transfer portal promises excitement. Despite modest results at Oregon, his prior Tulane statistics were impressive. Hughes is expected to replicate his performance in Texas.
Defensive coordinator Austin Armstrong’s strategies have challenged offenses recently.
Houston seems poised for a conference win. Their schedule excludes BYU and both Arizona teams while they face Texas Tech early. The Red Raiders face uncertainty with quarterback Brendan Sorsby, offering Houston the chance to outpace Tech and secure a conference victory.
Austin Perry is a writer for OutKick.
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