Easiest college football schedules emerge for contenders in 2026
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 5, 2026, 8:35 AM
Last updated Aug 5, 2026
The 2026 preseason US LBM Coaches Poll highlights college football teams facing relatively easier schedules as they pursue playoff spots. The analysis reveals that teams from the ACC and Big 12 are positioned favorably, with few ranked opponents ahead. Notable teams include Pitt, Kansas, Baylor, and Virginia, which can leverage these schedules for potential success this season. With one ranked opponent each, these squads have a chance to build momentum and aim for double-digit wins while navigating their upcoming matchups.
- •Pitt faces one ranked opponent early in the season.
- •Kansas plays No. 25 Missouri on Sept. 11.
- •Baylor has nine games before meeting a ranked team.
- •Virginia's only ranked game is against No. 20 SMU on Oct. 17.
- •UCF and Utah also schedule home games against ranked teams.
- 8:41 AMYahoo Sports — College football toughest schedules based on 2026 preseason rankings
- 8:35 AMYahoo Sports — College football easiest schedules based on 2026 preseason rankings
"The preseason US LBM Coaches Poll reveals some teams have an easy schedule ahead of them in the march toward a College Football Playoff spot.
"The preseason US LBM Coaches Poll gives a better look at which teams have the toughest schedules for the 2026 college football season.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 5, 2026, 8:41 AMCollege football toughest schedules based on 2026 preseason rankings
The preseason US LBM Coaches Poll gives a better look at which teams have the toughest schedules for the 2026 college football season.
- Yahoo SportsAug 5, 2026, 8:35 AMCollege football easiest schedules based on 2026 preseason rankings
The preseason US LBM Coaches Poll reveals some teams have an easy schedule ahead of them in the march toward a College Football Playoff spot.
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