Preseason poll reveals most overrated teams in college football. Here they are
Brand names still get benefit of the doubt. Here are college football's most overrated teams based off US LBM preseason Coaches Poll.
The preseason poll has identified the most overrated teams in college football for the 2026 season. These teams include Alabama, Clemson, Michigan, Penn State, and LSU, among others.
Alabama's overrated status stems from the significant loss of 15 starters, including 10 NFL Draft picks from 2025, such as Kadyn Proctor (No. 12) and QB Ty Simpson (No. 13). Additionally, the team is expected to face a demanding schedule, with a six-game losing streak and losses against Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl.
Clemson, another overrated team, debuted at No. 6 in preseason rankings but closed unranked. The team returned two starting offensive linemen but still has three holes on the offensive line and a new quarterback, Christopher Vizzina. The Tigers also face tough road games against LSU, California, Florida State, and Duke, as well as home games against College Football Playoff runner-up Miami and South Carolina.
Michigan's overrated status is due to the team's ongoing scandal aftermath, with only 10 starters returning from the 2020s. The Wolverines have a challenging schedule, including road games against Oklahoma, Minnesota, Oregon, and Ohio State, as well as home games against Iowa, Penn State, and defending national champion Indiana. The team's new coaching regime under Wink Martindale further compounds the difficulties they face.
Penn State, returning just four starters from within the program, is transitioning into a new coaching era under Matt Campbell. The team has a difficult slate of games, including road games at USC and Washington, as well as visits to Northwestern's scintillating New Ryan Field. While the program does not have to play against Ohio State or Oregon, their placement at No. 17 is considered too high, given their relatively easy schedule.
Lastly, LSU is considered overrated with Lane Kiffin taking over a 7-6 program filled with new players, including a transfer QB in Sam Leavitt who suffered a Lisfranc injury earlier in the season. The Tigers face a challenging schedule that includes demanding road games at LSU, California, Florida State, and Duke, as well as home clashes against College Football Playoff runner-up Miami and South Carolina.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
