6 college football teams that could surprise everyone in 2026

Six college football teams that may outperform expectations in the upcoming 2026 season are highlighted below.

First on the list is the LSU Tigers, who began the 2025 campaign with high expectations but ultimately finished with a 7-6 record. The Tigers have traded in their interim coach Frank Wilson for new offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin, who brings a roster of transfers including quarterback Sam Leavitt and wide receiver Eugene Wilson III. While the success of this roster turnover remains uncertain, LSU fans will undoubtedly enjoy watching.

Next up is the South Carolina Gamecocks, who began the 2025 season ranked 13th under head coach Shane Beamer. The team's campaign saw them climb into the top ten before a disappointing stretch led to a 4-8 finish. With new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles focusing on improving the offense, particularly for quarterback LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina could see a significant improvement in their performance.

Houston Cougars, who finished the 2025 season with a 10-3 record and a 6-3 mark in the Big 12, are poised for even greater success in 2026. Quarterback Conner Weigman, coming off a career-best year, will have continuity in the coaching staff with the return of offensive coordinator Slade Hagle. Wide receivers Amare Thomas and Patrick Overmyer, both All-Big 12 selections, will add to the passing game.

Running back Makhi Hughes, who ran for nearly 3,000 yards at Tulane, will provide a significant boost to the offense. The Cougars could find themselves in the Big 12 title game.

Penn State Nittany Lions, ranked second in the preseason AP Top 25, saw their season unravel quickly after a 3-0 start. After six consecutive losses, the program saw James Franklin fired, with Matt Campbell stepping in. Campbell has brought in 40 transfers from Iowa State, including quarterback Rocco Becht, who has 39 starts and 26 wins under his belt. This transfer-heavy roster could give Penn State a much-needed boost in 2026.

Florida Gators, who began the 2025 season with a 3-4 record after a strong start, are another team that may see improvement in 2026. Billy Napier was fired in October, and the team finished with a 4-8 record, including a 2-6 SEC record. New head coach Jon Sumrall and offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, who brought several key personnel with him from Georgia Tech, will aim to revitalize the program and offense.

With Faulkner's offensive innovations and the return of several key players, Florida could see a much-improved team in 2026.