2026 College Football Predictions: CFP Picks, Heisman Contenders, Surprises

The 2026 college football season is here, bringing a whirlwind of excitement, speculation, and predictions. This year could be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory, thanks to transfer portal moves, coaching changes, and departures to and from the NFL.

With no clear favorite emerging, fans and analysts are eagerly waiting for what could be a historic season. In this blog post, we’ll look at expert predictions for the College Football Playoff (CFP), Heisman Trophy contenders, and the biggest surprises and disappointments of the season.

College Football Playoff Predictions

As we enter the 2026 season, the expanded 12-team CFP format means perfection is no longer required for a championship run. Here’s what some of the top experts predict:

Ohio State

Several experts, including Eddie Timanus and Blake Toppmeyer, have their eyes on Ohio State. The Buckeyes are loaded with offensive firepower and face a tough schedule, but they’re expected to be the last team standing.

With Julian Sayin improving in his second season as the starting quarterback, Ohio State looks poised for a strong run.

Notre Dame

John Brice and Paul Myerberg are betting on Notre Dame to end its nearly 40-year title drought. The Fighting Irish have the depth and quarterback play needed for a championship run.

Their friendlier schedule also puts them in a good position for a playoff push.

Georgia

Both Matt Hayes and Erick Smith believe Georgia will finally break through after missing the CFP in each of the past two seasons. With a stout defense and an experienced quarterback, the Bulldogs are motivated to make this year count.

Heisman Trophy Contenders

The race for the Heisman Trophy is always one of the most exciting parts of the college football season. Here are the players to keep an eye on:

Dante Moore

John Brice and Blake Toppmeyer both favor Dante Moore of Oregon. Moore’s dual-threat ability and numerous chances to make his case, including games against Southern California, Ohio State, and Michigan, make him a strong Heisman contender.

Jayden Maiava

Jordan Mendoza is backing Jayden Maiava of Southern California. Maiava has one of the best arms in the country, and if USC reaches the playoff, it will probably be because of his stellar play.

That kind of season could earn him college football’s top individual prize.

Arch Manning

Paul Myerberg points to Arch Manning of Texas as a major contender. With name recognition and a strong supporting cast, Manning has spent his entire career under the spotlight and appears ready for the pressure of a Heisman campaign.

Most Anticipated Games

The 2026 season is packed with matchups that promise to be thrilling from start to finish. Here are some of the most anticipated games:

Ohio State vs. Southern California

Jordan Mendoza highlights the potential shootout between Ohio State and Southern California. The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will be rocking when these heavyweights meet.

It could be a thrilling contest, and there’s a good chance it comes down to the final play.

Georgia at Alabama

Erick Smith notes the importance of the Georgia at Alabama matchup in early October. This game could ultimately decide which team reaches the SEC title game, with major implications for the CFP.

Oregon at Ohio State

Eddie Timanus is excited about the early November showdown between Oregon and Ohio State. This game could be a 1-vs.-2 matchup, setting up a potential sequel in the CFP.

Biggest Surprises

Every season brings its share of surprises, and 2026 should be no different. Here are the teams expected to exceed expectations:

Virginia Tech

John Brice and Eddie Timanus both see Virginia Tech as a team to watch. With a soft schedule and a new era under James Franklin, the Hokies are positioned to show real progress this season.

California

Jordan Mendoza is high on California. Under new coach Tosh Lupoi, the Golden Bears have the talent and a favorable schedule to make a run at 10 wins.

Washington

Paul Myerberg believes Washington has the firepower and schedule to make some national noise. The Huskies might not be at the same level as Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana, but they’re still a team to watch in a crowded Big Ten race.

Biggest Disappointments

Not every team will live up to the hype. Here are the teams that might fall short of expectations:

LSU

Both Matt Hayes and Paul Myerberg are skeptical about LSU. Despite high expectations, the Tigers might win only eight or nine games and miss the CFP.

Mississippi

Jordan Mendoza points to concerns about Mississippi. The Rebels have a strong 1-2 punch in Trinidad Chambliss and Kewan Lacy, but there are reasonable doubts about whether Pete Golding is ready for the grind of a full season.

Texas

John Brice and Eddie Timanus both see Texas as a potential disappointment. The Longhorns have a killer schedule, and while they’re too good to be bad, an 8-4 record would feel like a letdown for a team with title aspirations.

Coach of the Year Contenders

The Coach of the Year award is always a hotly contested honor. Here are the coaches expected to make a significant impact:

Marcus Freeman

John Brice and Paul Myerberg both believe Marcus Freeman of Notre Dame is a strong contender. Freeman has elevated Irish recruiting and has the program’s most talented roster in decades.

A manageable schedule and a star quarterback give him the runway for a dominant regular season.

Kalani Sitake

Jordan Mendoza and Blake Toppmeyer are backing Kalani Sitake of BYU. Sitake has built BYU into a Big 12 contender, and if the Cougars make their first playoff appearance, that’s coach of the year material.

Tim Polasek

Eddie Timanus is excited about Tim Polasek of North Dakota State. Polasek could lead the Bison to a Mountain West title in their first FBS season, much like James Madison’s rapid rise.

For more detailed predictions and insights, you can read the full article on USA Today.