League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Ohio State ranked as top college football program entering 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 20, 2026, 5:16 PM

Last updated Jul 20, 2026

Ohio State ranked as top college football program entering 2026 season

Summary

The Ohio State Buckeyes have been ranked the No. 1 college football program ahead of the 2026 season in a recent evaluation by USA TODAY Sports. Ohio State has shown notable consistency over the last 15 years, securing two national titles in the College Football Playoff era. The Buckeyes have not recorded fewer than 11 wins in a season since 2011, with the exception of a shortened 2020 season. Alabama, ranked second, has faced challenges following Nick Saban's departure, while Georgia, ranked third, has plateaued in the playoff format. Coach Ryan Day leads Ohio State into the new season with an 82-12 record since taking over.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Ohio State has been rated the top program by USA TODAY Sports.
•The Buckeyes have not fewer than 11 wins since 2011.
•Alabama is ranked second, with notable changes after Saban's exit.
•Georgia sits at third but has struggled in recent playoffs.
•Ryan Day leads Ohio State into his eighth season with a strong record.

Latest Updates

5:16 PMYahoo Sports — Are the Ohio State Buckeyes the best program in college football?

What they're saying

"
Ohio State has been a pillar of consistency over the last 15 years, and the Buckeyes have won a pair of national titles in the CFP era.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NCAAF College Sports