Full Breakdown
2026 College Football Preseason Rankings: AP Poll Prediction and Coaches Poll Outlook
8/1/2026, 3:00:46 PM
Core Event – Predicted AP Top 25 and Upcoming Coaches Poll
The Big Lead projected the AP preseason Top 25, compiled from 66 media voters, with Indiana at No. 1 after a 16-0 championship season. The outlet also listed the full top-25, highlighting Texas, Notre Dame, Oregon, Georgia, Ohio State, and others.
Sports Illustrated previewed the Coaches Poll to be issued on Tuesday, August 4 at 12 p.m. Eastern. Its projection puts Ohio State at No. 1, followed by Georgia, Texas, Notre Dame, and Oregon.
Background & Context – Why preseason polls matter
Preseason rankings set the early narrative for the season. The AP poll influences “Playoff talk,” while the Coaches Poll offers an insider view of roster changes and coaching moves, shaping expectations before games begin.
Data & Statistics – Top-10 snapshots from each poll
AP Poll (projected)
1. Indiana – 16-0 champion, unanimous first-place votes
2. Texas – Arch Manning returning
3. Notre Dame – CJ Carr preseason Heisman favorite
4. Oregon – Dante Moore returning
5. Georgia – Gunner Stockton at quarterback
Coaches Poll (projected)
1. Ohio State – Jeremiah Smith and Julian Sayin receiving duo
2. Georgia – Gunner Stockton and strong defense
3. Texas – Arch Manning’s second season
4. Notre Dame – CJ Carr leading the offense
5. Oregon – Dan Lanning’s receiving corps with Dante Moore at quarterback
Both projections also list Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Miami, and Indiana within the top ten, though positions differ.
Timeline
- Mid-August – AP preseason Top 25 expected, per The Big Lead.
- Tuesday, August 4, 12 p.m. Eastern – Coaches Poll release, per Sports Illustrated.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The AP projection crowns Indiana as No. 1, while the Coaches projection places Ohio State at the summit. Rankings for Texas, Notre Dame, and Oregon also vary, reflecting different evaluation criteria. Neither source provides the final official results, which will be known after the releases.
What’s Next – Awaiting the official Coaches Poll
The Coaches Poll will be public on August 4 at noon Eastern. Observers will compare the actual poll to these predictions, noting where media expectations align or diverge from the coaches’ assessment.
