Full Breakdown
Overrated Teams in the 2026 College Football Preseason Rankings
8/4/2026, 8:20:05 AM
Core Overrating Claims
Sports Illustrated identifies Texas, LSU, Penn State, Miami and Alabama as the five programs projected higher than their recent results and roster situations justify. Analysts argue that preseason polls are driven by transfer-portal activity, high-profile hires and lingering brand reputation rather than on-field performance.
Background: Recent Performance and Roster Turnover
Texas finished the 2025 season 9-3, missed the College Football Playoff and returned only three starters on offense, rebuilding its running-back group after four departures. LSU rebounded from a 7-6 campaign, fired Brian Kelly midseason and added 60 scholarship players, including 41 from the nation’s top transfer class. Penn State’s 7-6 finish featured a mid-season coaching change, with new head coach Matt Campbell inheriting a roster that includes 24 former Iowa State players. Miami entered the season after a 13-3 run to the national championship but lost 16 starters, including both defensive ends, and is fielding a true-freshman left tackle. Alabama returns without a named starting quarterback, with senior Austin Mack and sophomore Keelon Russell still competing for the role after Ty Simpson departed for the NFL.
Official Statements & Responses
Miami coach Mario Cristobal emphasized that his defensive line “has been working to replace” the departed starters.
Data & Statistics
- Texas averaged 3.3 yards per carry in SEC play last season.
- LSU’s 2026 roster overhaul includes 60 scholarship players, the largest single-year change in program history.
- Alabama ranked 12th-lowest in FBS rushing yards last season (104 yards per game).
- Miami’s quarterback Darian Mensah threw for 3,973 yards and 34 touchdowns at Duke in 2024.
- Penn State’s 2025 Big Ten record was 3-6.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We put together a roster that can win now,” — Lane Kiffin, tigers head coach
