**2026 Preseason Rankings** [cooling]
Key Questions
Who tops ESPN's 2026 Way-Too-Early Top 25 spring update?
Oregon State is ranked #1, followed by Oregon at #2 and Georgia at #3. Texas sits at #5, while Penn State jumps to #15 due to the Becht transfer.
How do the SP+ rankings project the top teams for 2026?
Oregon State and Oregon lead the SP+ rankings, with Texas Tech at #7. The SEC and Big Ten show strong depth through portal acquisitions and coaching hires.
What narratives do these 2026 preseason rankings establish?
The rankings set national contender narratives, emphasizing power shifts like the Big Ten's growing dominance. They highlight top teams and conference strengths via transfers and hires.
ESPN WTE spring Top 25: OSU #1, Oregon #2, UGA #3, Texas #5, Penn State jumps to #15 (Becht transfer); SP+ OSU/Oregon lead, Texas Tech #7, SEC/Big Ten depth via portal/hires. Sets national contender narratives.
Sources (2)
Updated Apr 17, 2026