Five unranked teams could reach the 2026 CFP
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 9:01 AM
Last updated Aug 14, 2026
Yahoo Sports highlights five unranked college football teams that could contend for the 2026 College Football Playoff. Oklahoma State, coming off a poor season, shows potential under new coach Eric Morris. TCU looks to make a run with a manageable schedule and returning talent. UNLV is favored in the Mountain West and has made significant roster improvements. Louisville and Arizona State round out the list, needing strong performances to improve their playoff chances.
- •Oklahoma State finished 1-11 last season, aiming for a turnaround.
- •TCU's Sonny Dykes returns with a strong roster after two nine-win seasons.
- •UNLV is the Mountain West favorite, looking to advance after last season's near title.
- •Louisville started the 2025 season strong but faded late with key losses.
- •Coaching changes and transfers shape playoff contenders in college football.
- 9:01 AMYahoo Sports — From 1-11 to Playoff? 5 unranked teams who could surprise their way into 2026 CFP
"There are a wide range of outcomes in any given college football season. Here are five unranked teams that could reach the CFP in 2026.
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