Illinois left out of 2026 preseason US LBM Coaches Poll
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 5, 2026, 12:15 PM
Last updated Aug 5, 2026
The 2026 preseason US LBM College Football Coaches Poll excluded the Illinois Fighting Illini, a Big Ten team that some argue should have been included. Illinois has recently won at least nine games in each of the past two seasons and is seen as a competitive program under coach Bret Bielema. The poll included eight other Big Ten teams, while Illinois is positioned with a manageable schedule that could allow for double-digit wins if they meet expectations. The season will show whether Illinois can capitalize on its opportunities or if the rankings will hold true throughout the year.
- •Illinois did not make the preseason top 25 coaches poll.
- •Illinois has won at least nine games the last two seasons.
- •Katin Houser joins the roster as quarterback this season.
- •The Fighting Illini have a favorable schedule ahead.
- •Eight other Big Ten teams are ranked in the poll.
- 12:15 PMYahoo Sports — One Big Ten team snubbed in 2026 preseason US LBM Coaches Poll
"USC was excluded from the top 12 and a College Football Playoff position, but another Big Ten team was fully excluded from the preseason top 25
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