College Football Playoff 2026: Expert Predictions for Final Four Teams

The college basketball Final Four might be stealing the spotlight this weekend, but honestly, it’s never too early to peek ahead at another big event: the College Football Playoff (CFP). With the 12-team format heading into its third year, things have stayed wild and unpredictable.

CBS Sports’ college football writers have already tossed out their early “Final Four” predictions for the 2026 season. It’s a fun look at which teams could end up running the show, whether it’s the usual powerhouses or some sneaky dark horses.

The 2026 CFP is shaping up to be a spectacle, and I mean, who doesn’t love a little chaos in college football?

Expert Predictions: The Usual Suspects and Surprising Picks

So, when it comes to early guesses for the 2026 College Football Playoff, a few teams keep popping up. Notre Dame and Ohio State are on almost every expert’s list. Not shocking—they’re both early favorites for the national championship.

Notre Dame: A Team on a Mission

Notre Dame’s got something to prove in 2026. After that controversial snub from the 2025 CFP, the Fighting Irish are out to make a statement.

Even with star running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price moving on, they’re expected to fill those spots pretty smoothly. The defense is stacked, and the schedule’s not too brutal, so honestly, a 12-0 season doesn’t sound crazy.

Ohio State: Elite QB-WR Tandem

Ohio State? Yeah, experts love them too. With Julian Sayin throwing to Jeremiah Smith, that QB-WR duo could be electric.

The Buckeyes are bringing back a bunch of starters and have a solid recruiting class. They look like a real threat, no doubt.

Other Top Contenders

Notre Dame and Ohio State might be the favorites, but they’re not the only ones getting attention. Texas, Texas A&M, Georgia, and Oregon are all in the conversation as well.

Texas: Arch Manning Leads the Charge

Texas is a trendy pick, mostly thanks to quarterback Arch Manning and wideout Cam Coleman. There’s a lot of pressure for them to win the SEC and make a deep run.

This feels like a make-or-break year for Texas, honestly. All eyes are on Manning—can he deliver?

Georgia: Steady as Ever

Georgia just keeps chugging along under Kirby Smart. Even after back-to-back quarterfinal losses, the Bulldogs still look like a championship team.

With Gunner Stockton back at quarterback and that fierce defense, Georgia’s got another shot at a big playoff run.

Oregon: A Loaded Roster

Oregon’s in the mix, too. They’ve got a returning starter at quarterback and a roster that’s honestly loaded with talent.

The Ducks should be hanging out near the top of the polls all year. Don’t be surprised if they win a couple playoff games.

Intriguing Dark Horses

Sure, the favorites get most of the buzz, but there are always a few dark horses. Miami, Texas Tech, and Michigan are all teams that could shake things up in 2026.

Miami: Transfer Quarterback Darian Mensah

Miami could make some real noise in the ACC with transfer quarterback Darian Mensah. Some are even projecting the Hurricanes as the unbeaten top seed, especially if they can beat Notre Dame in the regular season.

Mario Cristobal has this team looking dangerous. Maybe this is finally their year?

Texas Tech: Big 12 Champions

Texas Tech is another one to keep an eye on. The Red Raiders are expected to repeat as Big 12 champs and maybe even snag a postseason win to get to the quarters.

Their offensive line is loaded with veterans, and a high seed could make them a tough matchup.

Michigan: Bryce Underwood’s Breakout Season

Michigan’s a bit of a long shot, but there’s a path. Bryce Underwood at quarterback could have a breakout season, especially with new offensive coordinator Jason Beck calling plays.

Plus, head coach Kyle Whittingham has shored up the defense with transfers. Don’t count them out just yet.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 College Football Playoff? It’s looking wild already. Sure, Notre Dame, Ohio State, and Georgia are the usual suspects, but don’t count out a few surprise contenders.

Some of these teams have quarterbacks who’ve seen it all, and their rosters are stacked. That mix of experience and raw talent could shake things up more than most expect.

If you want the deep dive, here’s the full article on CBS Sports.

The season’s almost here, and honestly, it’s tough to look away. Who knows which players or teams will catch fire and change everything?