#25. Missouri
Missouri seems to be stuck in a rut right now. They’re good enough to compete in the SEC and keep games close and exciting, but are they good enough to rise above the rest of the conference? I doubt it.
They have the talent and the coaching, but they just don’t have that “it” factor, and I don’t see that changing in 2026. That said, they do have running back Ahmad Hardy returning after establishing himself as one of the SEC’s best backs last season. Mizzou will be a tough matchup for anyone, but I don’t see the Tigers making the College Football Playoff.
#24. Iowa
Iowa finished 9-4 last season, including a 6-3 record in the Big Ten—right in line with what the Hawkeyes seem to do every year.
They’re rarely at the bottom of the conference, but because of the resources, competition, and overall strength at the top of the Big Ten, they continue to struggle to take the next step. The conference remains loaded with elite programs.
One reason for optimism is running back Kamari Moulton, who played at a high level last season and has the potential to be one of the nation’s top backs in 2026.
#23. Tennessee
Tennessee enters the 2026 season in a bit of an unusual spot.
For starters, the Volunteers have yet to announce whether second-year quarterback George MacIntyre or true freshman Brandon Faizon will win the starting job. This also feels like a pivotal season for head coach Josh Heupel.
Heupel helped pull Tennessee out of a difficult stretch, but since then, the program hasn’t achieved the level of success many expected. At some point, the significant investment being made into Tennessee football has to translate into bigger results, and 2026 could be a defining year for Heupel.
#22. Utah
Coming off an 11-2 season, Utah enters 2026 expecting to contend once again.
The Utes return quarterback Devon Dampier, one of the nation’s most dynamic dual-threat players after accounting for 34 touchdowns last season. Their defense should also remain physical and dominant.
Utah has all the ingredients to emerge as a dark horse Big 12 champion and make another run at the College Football Playoff.
#21. Louisville
Louisville enters the 2026 season with high expectations after being picked to finish third in the ACC preseason poll.
The Cardinals return All-ACC preseason running back Isaac Brown, who is widely expected to be one of the conference’s top offensive players. If Louisville can pair that elite rushing attack with a more explosive passing game, the Cardinals could be one of the ACC’s biggest surprises in 2026.
