College Football Playoff: 31 teams that can make the CFP
These schools have the players -- and the schedules -- to reach the playoff in 2026.
The College Football Playoff is always a thrilling ride, and with the ever-changing landscape of college football, it's exciting to think about which teams can make a run for the championship in 2026. With 31 teams identified as having the potential to make the playoff, it's clear that there's a lot of talent and depth across the country. These teams have the players, coaches, and schedules to make a serious push for the CFP.
What's interesting is that this list isn't just dominated by traditional powerhouses. There are programs from various conferences and regions that have the potential to make a splash. This speaks to the growing competitiveness of college football, where teams from outside the Power Five conferences are increasingly capable of making a deep run. For players, this means more opportunities to make a name for themselves on the national stage and potentially get noticed by NFL scouts.
As we look ahead to the 2026 season, it's essential to keep an eye on how these teams develop their rosters and navigate their schedules. Will teams like Clemson, Alabama, and Ohio State continue to dominate, or will newcomers like Oregon, Utah, and Kansas State make a push for the playoff? For players, the next thing to watch is how their teams perform in the upcoming season and whether they can make a case for a CFP berth. The road to the playoff will be exciting, and it's going to be a wild ride.
Originally reported by espn.com. PlayerNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.