Key College Football Figures Under Pressure for 2026 Season
As the 2026 college football season approaches, various teams, coaches, and players face significant expectations. The pressure is on for them to deliver improved performances.
The offseason brings a sense of hope for sports fans, who anticipate their teams will improve and achieve their potential. However, this hope can also lead to increased pressure, which may result in disappointment if expectations are not met.
In college football, several teams, coaches, and players are under the spotlight heading into 2026, with the expectation of better outcomes. Some programs are vying for a spot in the College Football Playoff, while others are looking to rebound from disappointing seasons, and certain coaches are facing job security concerns.
Andrea Adelson highlights Clemson as a team that must prove itself after a disappointing 2025 season, finishing with a 7-6 record despite having a roster full of talent. Coach Dabo Swinney made significant changes, including a heavy focus on the transfer portal and hiring Chad Morris as offensive coordinator, but the team faces questions with many veterans leaving.
Adam Rittenberg points to USC, where Coach Lincoln Riley has called for patience as he works to build a sustainable program. With a talented roster and top recruits, the Trojans aim for their first College Football Playoff appearance, but they will face a challenging Big Ten schedule.
Jake Trotter notes that Wisconsin has struggled under Coach Luke Fickell, suffering back-to-back losing seasons for the first time in decades. With a commitment to improving the program, the upcoming season will be crucial to see if the Badgers can turn things around.
Mark Schlabach emphasizes Alabama's need for improvement after a subpar 20-8 record under Coach Kalen DeBoer. With significant roster changes, including the departure of quarterback Ty Simpson, the Tide seek to bounce back after a disappointing campaign.
Bill Connelly identifies Alabama as a key team to watch, as they face an inexperienced quarterback and a revamped offensive line. The team's defensive front is also undergoing changes, making the upcoming season critical for DeBoer.
Eli Lederman discusses Texas Tech, which successfully capitalized on the transfer portal to win its first outright conference title in decades. The Red Raiders must now prove their consistency and avoid being seen as a one-time success story, with 14 returning starters and a strong transfer class.
Adelson points out that Florida State's head coach Mike Norvell faces immense pressure after a disappointing two years following a strong 2023 season. Retaining Norvell for another year means the Seminoles must return to postseason play.
Rittenberg suggests Kalen DeBoer is another coach under scrutiny, as he attempts to build a more competitive team after a lackluster finish last season. The pressure is on to improve and advance further in the CFP.
Trotter mentions Lane Kiffin, who left Ole Miss for LSU, now facing high expectations due to a lucrative contract and the significant investment made in the roster by LSU.
Schlabach reflects on Matt Rhule's journey with Nebraska, which has not seen a winning season since 2012. After a contract extension, it is time for the Cornhuskers to show signs of improvement.
Connelly observes that Shane Beamer's tenure at South Carolina has seen some highs and lows, but with a mediocre record, this season could determine his future as head coach amid major roster changes.