Key 2026 Matchups for Every Way-Too-Early Top 25 College Football Team

As the 2026 college football season creeps closer, fans and analysts are already buzzing about which games will shape the race for conference titles and the College Football Playoff (CFP). Schedules are set, transfer drama has mostly settled, and anticipation is in the air.

Using the way-too-early 2026 Top 25 as a loose guide, let’s look at the matchups that could make or break the top programs. If you want the full rundown, check out the article on CBS Sports.

Ohio State’s Brutal 2026 Schedule

Ohio State’s got one of the nastiest slates in the Big Ten this year. Five opponents are projected Top 25 teams—yikes.

Their season could hinge on the Indiana game, set for October 17. That one’s sandwiched right before a gauntlet: USC, Oregon, and Michigan.

• Date: October 17
• Opponent: Indiana
• Importance: Precedes games against USC, Oregon, and Michigan

Texas Longhorns’ Redemption Against Ohio State

Texas fans haven’t forgotten last fall’s season-opening loss to Ohio State that kept them out of the CFP. The rematch in Austin on September 12 is circled in red ink.

A win here could be the signature moment the committee needs to see, especially if Texas is fighting for an at-large playoff spot. Road trips to Tennessee and LSU will be tough, and there’s a big finale in College Station on November 27.

• Date: September 12
• Opponent: Ohio State
• Importance: Potential marquee victory for CFP consideration

Georgia Bulldogs’ Battle in Oxford

Georgia might stroll into Oxford undefeated and sitting atop the rankings in early November. Their biggest test? Ole Miss on November 7.

If Ole Miss is as good as some think under Pete Golding, this one could shake up the playoff picture. Georgia fans still remember last fall’s split series, when their secondary got shredded by Trinidad Chambliss—he’s still waiting on that eligibility waiver, by the way.

• Date: November 7
• Opponent: Ole Miss
• Importance: Potential top-four seed implications

Oregon Ducks’ Crucial Game Against USC

Oregon faces a steep climb back to the playoff if they stumble against USC in L.A. on September 26. It’s a high-stakes opener for both teams—and for Lincoln Riley, who’s coaching for a new deal.

Dan Lanning and his new staff can’t afford to start the Big Ten grind with a loss. Neither can USC, honestly.

• Date: September 26
• Opponent: USC
• Importance: Crucial for playoff and league title aspirations

Notre Dame’s Showdown with Miami

Notre Dame’s got Miami circled on November 7. Their schedule’s not the toughest, so the committee will be watching to see if Marcus Freeman’s squad can hang with the big boys.

Last year, a loss to Miami knocked the Irish out of the playoff hunt. This time, the stakes are just as high.

• Date: November 7
• Opponent: Miami
• Importance: Crucial for CFP consideration

Texas A&M’s Redemption Game Against Texas

For Texas A&M, it’s all about the Texas game on November 27. That loss in Austin last year derailed their season, plain and simple.

This time, there might even be Heisman hopes on the line for QBs Marcel Reed and Manning. Both could be in the finalist conversation by then.

• Date: November 27
• Opponent: Texas
• Importance: Potential CFP and Heisman implications

Indiana’s Crucial Trip to Michigan

Indiana’s got Michigan on October 24, and that’s their shot. Sure, they’ll see USC and Washington later, but if they flop in Ann Arbor, those games lose their shine.

Indiana’s win over Michigan in 2024 was only their second in 35 years. Feels like a long shot, but hey, stranger things have happened.

• Date: October 24
• Opponent: Michigan
• Importance: Crucial for conference title game implications

Michigan’s Season-Defining Game Against Ohio State

Michigan’s showdown with Ohio State on November 28 is, well, everything. Kyle Whittingham’s first year in Ann Arbor could get a massive boost with a win here.

Even if the Big Ten title isn’t on the line, beating the Buckeyes would make a statement. Who doesn’t want that?

• Date: November 28
• Opponent: Ohio State
• Importance: Significant for boosting program standing

Oklahoma’s Early Test Against Michigan

Oklahoma faces Michigan on September 12, and it’s a biggie. Last year’s win over the Wolverines in Norman gave the Sooners a jolt heading into SEC play.

Another win would be huge—bragging rights, poll position, the works. Early-season fireworks, anyone?

• Date: September 12
• Opponent: Michigan
• Importance: Crucial for CFP aspirations

USC’s Trap Game Against Penn State

USC can’t overlook Penn State on October 10. This one’s tucked right after physical games with Oregon and Washington, and just before a bye week.

If USC’s chasing a playoff spot, they can’t slip up here. It’s got trap game written all over it.

Key Points for USC

• Date: October 10
• Opponent: Penn State
• Importance: Crucial for CFP aspirations

The 2026 college football season is almost here. There’s a handful of games that just feel bigger than the rest.

Each matchup could shake up the conference title race. And let’s be honest, the CFP hopes for a few teams might hinge on what happens in these showdowns.

If you’re curious about all the details, check out the full article on CBS Sports.