2026 college football season preview outlines schedule, rules and storylines
The New York Times reported that The Athletic’s guide outlined the opening week, new NCAA eligibility rules, conference realignment, financial trends and the top players and coaches to watch in the 2026 college football season. Earlier coverage noted that analysts identified conference rivalries, playoff format tweaks, coaching changes and new conference alignments as major factors shaping the season, according to Yahoo Sports.
The Ringer added that preseason polls, coaching moves and legal battles were dominating the lead-up. Sports Illustrated said several high-profile programs and coaches, including LSU, Texas, Ohio State and Alabama, faced heightened scrutiny, while ESPN reported that the season opened with revised playoff selection criteria, 33 first-year head coaches and several marquee non-conference games that could influence the College Football Playoff field.
