Nine programs emerge as early national championship contenders following college football openers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 4:01 PM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
Following the conclusion of the opening week of the college football season, nine programs have been identified as primary national championship contenders. Ohio State, Georgia, LSU, Miami, Texas, Oregon, Notre Dame, Indiana, and Oklahoma lead the group after decisive season-opening performances. LSU posted a 51-10 victory over Clemson, while Miami secured a 45-6 win against Stanford behind 401 passing yards from Darian Mensah. Texas and Ohio State now prepare for a matchup next weekend that could significantly impact the national outlook. Oklahoma also recorded a 51-0 shutout against UTEP, and Indiana maintained its status as defending champion by defeating North Texas 52-16. While Oregon navigated a narrow 34-27 win over Boise State, all nine teams remain in the conversation for the College Football Playoff.
- •Ohio State defeated Ball State 56-3 behind 320 passing yards from Julian Sayin.
- •LSU outgained Clemson 644-145 in a 51-10 victory.
- •Texas faces Ohio State next weekend following a 59-7 win over Texas State.
- •Oklahoma shut out UTEP 51-0 and prepares for a game against Michigan.
- •Miami recorded 401 passing yards and five touchdowns in a 45-6 win against Stanford.
- 4:01 PMYahoo Sports — My National Championship Contenders After Week 1
"It’s only Week 1. I’m not eliminating anybody from the College Football Playoff conversation yet, but after finally getting to watch these teams play, nine programs stand above the rest as my national championship contenders. This isn’t a ranking. There is no particular order. Ohio State Ohio State looked exactly like the No. 1 team…
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