According to a top‑ranking report from ESPN, Ohio State entered the 2026 college football season as the No. 1 team in the AFCA Coaches Poll, with the Big Ten hoping to extend its run of national championships to four.
The poll, released before the season’s kickoff, lists the Buckeyes at the pinnacle of the rankings, followed by the Ducks. While vote totals are not disclosed, the placement underscores Ohio State’s status as the preseason favorite and reflects the Big Ten’s continued dominance in college football.
The AFCA Coaches Poll is one of the most widely referenced preseason rankings, shaping expectations for teams across the country. Ohio State’s top spot signals strong anticipation for the Buckeyes’ performance amid a competitive Big Ten landscape.