SPORTS

Who will be the new No. 1 in the college football poll? Our ranking projection.

PUBLISHED Sep 13, 2026, 10:38 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 41

Left 7%

Center 93%

Sources: 41

Texas moved into position to take the top spot in major college football ranking projections following key early-season victories, including a notable win over top-ranked Ohio State. The Georgia Bulldogs hold the second position, maintaining constant pressure at the top of national projections after dominant performances. Meanwhile, the Miami Hurricanes continue a strong upward trajectory, securing a place in the top three following high-scoring non-conference wins. The Ohio State Buckeyes adjusted to the fourth spot following their narrow head-to-head loss to Texas, remaining firmly within national championship contention. The Notre Dame Fighting Irish round out the top five, maintaining steady placement among potential College Football Playoff contenders through undefeated play. National ranking projections reflect early-season shifts across major conferences, setting up critical conference matchups that will determine playoff seeding later in the season. Unannounced AP and Coaches Poll results remain subject to official release schedules.

By Noormahi M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On September 8 2024 Georgia held top ranking in AP college football poll.
On September 8 2024 Texas moved up following major non-conference win against Michigan.
On September 14 2024 Texas beat UTSA keeping top spot momentum in rankings.
On September 15 2024 Texas took No 1 spot in AP poll voting.
On September 21 2024 Georgia defeated Marshall to remain undefeated near top rank.
On September 28 2024 Georgia played Alabama in key SEC conference football matchup.
On October 5 2024 Miami defeated California to remain undefeated in ACC play.
On October 12 2024 Texas played Oklahoma in annual Red River Rivalry game.
On October 19 2024 Georgia defeated Texas in major SEC top-ranking battle.
On December 8 2024 College Football Playoff selection committee announces final ranking grid.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Immediate US impact shapes national college football playoff ranking debates.
Possible long-term US impact: Long-term US impact determines postseason seeding and broadcast media revenue.
Most affected groups: Most affected groups include college football fans, teams, and conferences.
Reader priority: Readers should prioritize official AP and Coaches Poll release announcements.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 41
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 3
Neutral:: 38

Explain Framing

Left: Highlights player movement, institutional impact, and rising conference popularity. Center: Focuses on game scores, poll voting data, and projections. Right: Emphasizes competitive toughness, coaching strategies, and traditional program success.