The Associated Press released its preseason Top 25 college football poll this week, ranking Ohio State as the No. 1 team in the U.S. [1].
These rankings establish the national expectations for the 2026 season. The poll serves as a primary benchmark for team prestige and playoff projections as NCAA Division I programs prepare for kickoff.
Ohio State claimed the top position [1], while Oregon followed closely at No. 2 [2]. The rankings reflect a competitive landscape at the top of the sport, one that shapes early season narratives and recruiting momentum.
Other prominent programs also featured heavily in the top 15. Texas entered the season ranked No. 5 [3], while USC appeared further down the list at No. 14 [4].
The poll was scheduled for release at 12 p.m. on the day of publication [5]. AP analyst Maura Carey said the rankings continue a long-standing tradition of weekly evaluations that track the performance of the nation's premier college football teams.
The preseason list provides a starting point for voters and fans to gauge team strength before game results begin to shift the standings. Because the poll relies on a panel of voters, it captures the perceived strength of rosters and coaching staff ahead of the first whistle.
“Ohio State claimed the top position [1]”
The 2026 preseason rankings highlight a power shift toward specific regional hubs, with Ohio State and Oregon positioned as the primary favorites. By placing these teams at the top, the AP creates a high-pressure environment for these programs to maintain their status, while providing a roadmap for under-ranked teams to climb the standings through early-season upsets.
