Analysts Pick 20 Players to Shape 2026 College Football Playoff Race
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 13
Analysts Pick 20 Players to Shape 2026 College Football Playoff Race
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 13
Summary
A new preseason list spotlights 20 players and position groups expected to sway the 2026 College Football Playoff chase, focusing on transfers, new Power 4 arrivals and others with limited snaps at their current schools.
Texas receiver Cam Coleman, LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt and Indiana quarterback Josh Hoover headline the projections, with each tied to teams seen as needing immediate production from high-profile newcomers.
Several picks center on roster turnover and protection concerns: LSU added left tackle Jordan Seaton after a 7-6 season, while Alabama’s offensive line and starting quarterback remain pivotal after last year’s Rose Bowl blowout loss to Indiana.
The list also flags units beyond quarterbacks, including Texas Tech’s rebuilt defensive front, Ohio State defensive tackle James Smith and Oregon safety Koi Perich, as potential playoff-race swing factors.
The exercise underscores how uncertain the 12-team field remains after last season’s surprise breakout by Fernando Mendoza, who was absent from a similar preseason watch list before becoming the NFL’s No. 1 overall pick.