Experts Split 2026 CFP Champion Picks 5 Ways as 6 Teams Open at +900 or Better
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Sep 1
Experts Split 2026 CFP Champion Picks 5 Ways as 6 Teams Open at +900 or Better
3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Sep 1
Summary
Nine analysts scattered their 2026 national title picks across five teams, underscoring a wide-open season after defending champion Indiana’s surprise 2025 run.
Six teams entered with championship odds of +900 or better, while the Heisman race looks similarly unsettled with favorite CJ Carr listed at only +700.
Ohio State, Oregon, Notre Dame, Texas and Indiana drew champion votes, with analysts repeatedly citing veteran quarterbacks, roster continuity and playoff-tested coaching as the deciding edges.
The panel also flagged Texas A&M, LSU and Indiana as potential overrated teams, while Washington, SMU, Kansas State and Houston were among the sleeper picks entering Week 1.
The forecast contrasts with SP+ simulations published later that made Ohio State the top title favorite at 14.2% and gave Notre Dame the best CFP odds at 71.6%.