Illinois misses AP Top 25 preseason poll for 2026 college football

The Associated Press released its Top 25 preseason poll for the 2026 college football season, and Illinois is outside the rankings, receiving nine votes, placing them unofficially at No. 33. The Illini finished the previous season with a 9-4 record, including a bowl game victory. Changes to the roster and coaching staff, including new offensive strategies and a new defensive coordinator, are expected as Illinois prepares for its opener against UAB on September 3. They will face three ranked opponents this season, which will impact their potential ranking.

• 8:52 PMYahoo Sports — Illinois finds itself outside of AP Top 25 preseason poll