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

Preseason rankings show wide range for UNC football in 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 14, 2026, 3:00 PM

Last updated Jul 14, 2026

Preseason rankings show wide range for UNC football in 2026

Summary

Multiple sources have offered conflicting preseason rankings for UNC football ahead of the 2026 season. Phil Steele and Bill Connelly’s SP+ rank UNC around 60th in the FBS and 12th in the ACC, while ESPN's FPI places them 42nd, and FEI ranks them 81st. UNC returns limited production after losing nearly 40 transfers from last season, impacting projections. Recruiting results show an influx of talent with a mix of true freshmen and transfers, but much of it is untested at the collegiate level. The Tar Heels have made changes to their coaching staff, hiring Bobby Petrino as offensive coordinator, which may influence future performance.

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By the Numbers

•Phil Steele and Bill Connelly rank UNC around 60th in the FBS.
•ESPN's FPI places UNC 42nd, while FEI ranks them 81st.
•UNC returns the least production of any ACC team this season.
•The 2026 recruiting class includes 40 true freshmen and one junior college addition.
•Bobby Petrino is the new offensive coordinator, replacing Freddie Kitchens.

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