Buckeyes, Ducks lead off preseason coaches' poll
Ohio State starts the 2026 season as the No. 1 team in the AFCA Coaches Poll as the Big Ten tries to extend its run of college football national champions to four.
The preseason coaches' poll is out and it's no surprise to see the Buckeyes sitting atop the rankings, given their consistent dominance in the Big Ten and on the national stage. This is a testament to the program's ability to recruit and develop top talent, as well as the strong leadership of their coaching staff. As a coach, it's interesting to see how the pollsters view the landscape of college football heading into the new season, and Ohio State's position at the top sets the bar high for the rest of the teams.
The fact that Oregon is right behind them at No. 2 suggests that the Ducks are poised to make a deep run in the playoffs, and their matchup against the Buckeyes could be one of the most highly anticipated games of the season. The Big Ten's streak of national championships is certainly on the line, and with Ohio State leading the charge, it will be exciting to see if they can bring home another title. As coaches, we know that preseason rankings are just the beginning, and it's how teams respond to adversity and perform under pressure that ultimately determines their success.
As we head into the 2026 season, it will be fascinating to watch how these top-ranked teams navigate their schedules and make adjustments on the fly. Coaches will be paying close attention to the strategies and play-calling of teams like Ohio State and Oregon, looking for insights and ideas to incorporate into their own game plans. With the college football landscape constantly evolving, it's essential to stay ahead of the curve and be prepared for anything, and the preseason coaches' poll is just the starting point for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable season.
Originally reported by espn.com. CoachNews adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.