ESPN Releases 2026 Preseason College Football Power Rankings

ESPN has released its preseason power rankings for the 2026 college football season. The rankings cover all 138 teams in the FBS, which is the top division of college football in the United States. The list ranks teams from strongest to weakest before any games have been played. Analysts create these rankings by looking at team rosters, coaching changes, and results from previous seasons. Fans and experts use the rankings to predict how teams might perform once the season begins. The rankings are part of a larger ESPN feature that also includes a recap of the 2026 college football offseason. The offseason is the period between the end of one season and the start of the next. During this time, teams often make changes, such as signing new players or hiring new coaches. These changes can affect how strong a team looks heading into the new season. The preseason rankings give an early picture of the competition before the season's kickoff, which means the official start of play. While the rankings are based on current information, they are not guaranteed to match how the season actually unfolds. Teams often rise or fall in the standings as real games are played. Still, preseason rankings are popular among college football fans because they spark debate and excitement ahead of the new year. They also help set expectations for which teams might compete for top spots. ESPN's full list gives a detailed look at where every FBS program currently stands, from the top contenders to the teams expected to struggle.