Clemson, Nebraska, Kansas State, and Cal aim for top-10 finishes
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 6:13 PM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026

The 2026 college football season begins with several unranked teams aiming for the AP Top 10. Clemson opens the season unranked for the first time since 2011, needing strong performances after a disappointing 2025 season. Nebraska, Kansas State, and California also show potential, with new coaching leadership and returning talent. Kansas State's Collin Klein takes over as head coach after two years at Texas A&M, while California looks to build on young quarterback play under Tosh Lupoi. Nebraska's Matt Rhule hopes for improvement despite lower expectations following player departures. The season's outcomes could significantly alter rankings and team trajectories.
- •Clemson starts unranked amid questions about their squad depth.
- •Kansas State returns key players with a favorable schedule this season.
- •California features a promising young QB and experienced offensive line.
- •Nebraska aims for resurgence with new quarterback and lower expectations.
- •The season's unfolding could lead to significant ranking changes.
- 6:13 PMYahoo Sports — Clemson and 3 other unranked CFB teams that could finish in the top-10
"Go from unranked to top-10? That's not out of the question here.
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