College football updates targeting rules and pass interference penalties for 2026 season

College football implements significant rule changes for the 2026 season, focusing on targeting penalties and pass interference enforcement. Targeting punishments now allow for a player's first targeting foul not to carry over into the next game, while second and third offenses result in increasing suspensions. The aim is to promote player safety and reduce disproportionate penalties. Additionally, offensive pass interference penalties will decrease from a 15-yard to a 10-yard penalty, aligning the consequences with defensive penalties to maintain competitive balance. The changes are anticipated to require adjustments from coaches, players, and officials throughout the upcoming season.

• 6:54 PMCBS Sports — Rule changes for 2026 season: Targeting punishment tweaked, more automatic unsportsmanlike conduct penalties