Classificação de poder futuro: como todos os 68 times universitários de futebol americano do Power 4 se comparam
Os rankings de poder futuro do futebol americano universitário foram reinventados como parte de um esporte em transformação. A constante troca de elencos no futebol americano universitário por causa do portal tornou as projeções de três anos menos sensatas. Em vez disso, os rankings analisarão as próximas duas temporadas — neste caso, as temporadas de 2025 e 2026 — e funcionarão mais como um panorama do cenário.
Em vez de entregar as parcelas antes do ranking das equipes, estou fazendo tudo de uma vez para as ligas Power 4 e Notre Dame. O motivo: o portal da primavera muda tudo, e as salas de QB ou unidades individuais podem parecer moderada ou significativamente diferentes no final de maio ou início de junho. Por exemplo, pense em onde o Tennessee estaria na lista de quarterbacks em fevereiro e qual é a perspectiva agora.
O ranking também será expandido para incluir todas as equipes do Power 4 e Notre Dame. As equipes serão avaliadas nas seguintes categorias:
Quarterback que retorna
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos no elenco
Perspectiva da linha ofensiva/linha defensiva
Gestão de lista
Poder de estrela (All-Americans, candidatos a prêmios nacionais, candidatos a todas as conferências)
Equipe técnica
Nem todas as áreas precisam ser um ponto forte para impulsionar a classificação geral de um time. A maioria dos times provavelmente não pode contar com um quarterback titular de vários anos em seu elenco, dada a volatilidade da posição. Mas os times mais promissores geralmente atendem a pelo menos alguns desses requisitos, especialmente a gestão geral do elenco (recrutamento e transferências no ensino médio), o jogo na linha de scrimmage e pelo menos algum poder de estrela.
Vamos começar com a nova versão Power 4 do FPR, do nº 68 até o nº 1.
Classificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Ashton Daniels , titular titular da equipe em 2024, foi transferido para Auburn em dezembro, após liderar o Cardinals em jardas aéreas (1.700) e corridas (699 jardas) no último outono. O reserva Elijah Brown ainda está na equipe.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: É possível. Muito depende de quem será o próximo técnico permanente, mas Brown é apenas um calouro e Dylan Rizk , transferido da UCF, tem várias temporadas de elegibilidade. Ben Gulbranson , transferido da Oregon State, que teve um retrospecto de 7-1 como titular dos Beavers em 2022, está entrando em seu último ano de elegibilidade.
Perspectiva da linha ofensiva/defensiva: A linha ofensiva sofreu alguns golpes, embora Stanford tenha retornado três titulares: os tackles Kahlil House e Simione Pale e o guard Jack Leyrer . A equipe também obteve alguns ganhos mais tarde no ciclo, adicionando Niki Prongos (UCLA), Nick Fattig (Texas Tech) e Nathan Mejia ( Sacramento State ). A linha defensiva de Stanford foi um dos poucos grupos com interrupções mínimas, com o retorno de Anthony Franklin , Zach Rowell e outros. Mas a linha precisa de algumas estrelas para emergir.
Gestão do elenco: Uma mudança de técnico no final de março teve os efeitos esperados no elenco, com a transferência do linebacker David Bailey , do wide receiver Emmett Mosley V e outros. Stanford fez algumas adições importantes na primavera, incluindo o linebacker Hunter Barth (Cal), Gulbranson, Rizk, Fattig e o cornerback Breylan Thompson ( Yale ). A equipe também contratou o wide receiver CJ Williams , transferido de Wisconsin, no inverno. Stanford assinou com a classe de recrutamento nº 43 da ESPN para 2025, mas provavelmente enfrentará alguns desafios, já que as coisas estão em suspenso.
Estrelas: Há alguns jogadores remanescentes para ficar de olho, inclusive nas linhas ofensiva e defensiva, mas Stanford, no fim das contas, precisará que suas transferências apresentem resultados. Os wide receivers Williams e David Pantelis (Yale) são adições intrigantes, assim como Thompson e Jordan Washington ( Dartmouth ) na defesa. Mas Stanford teve apenas um jogador que recebeu o reconhecimento All-ACC em 2024 (Elic Ayomanor ).
Comissão técnica: O ex-técnico da NFL Frank Reich comandará o programa em 2024, com a ajuda dos assistentes que trabalharam com seu antecessor, Troy Taylor. Mas as perspectivas são bastante incertas, já que o gerente geral Andrew Luck tenta descobrir como restaurar sua alma mater.
Classificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Na verdade, não. Hudson Card , titular titular do Purdue nas últimas duas temporadas, migrou para o futebol americano profissional. Ryan Browne , que foi titular em dois jogos em 2024, retornou aos Boilers após passar pelos treinos de primavera na Carolina do Norte.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: Altamente provável. O novo técnico Barry Odom certamente gostaria de encontrar uma resposta de longo prazo como quarterback, dada a incerteza em outras partes do elenco. Browne tem elegibilidade para o segundo ano e competirá por snaps com vários outros jogadores não veteranos, incluindo Malachi Singleton, transferido do Arkansas, e Evans Chuba, transferido do Washington State.
Perspectiva da linha ofensiva/defensiva: Prepare-se para aprender novos nomes em ambos os lados da bola. Purdue perdeu todos os cinco jogadores de linha ofensiva titulares de um grupo em dificuldades em 2024 e entrou com tudo no portal sob o comando da nova equipe. As chegadas de transferência incluem Jalen St. John , que seguiu a equipe da UNLV para Purdue, Bradyn Joiner (Auburn) e Tyrell Green , uma seleção FCS All-America na Eastern Kentucky . A linha defensiva também é pesada em transferências, embora alguns que foram transferidos antes da temporada de 2024 devam impactar o grupo. Purdue dependerá de transferências como a seleção All-MAC de 2024 , CJ Nunnally IV ( Akron ) e TJ Lindsey (Auburn).
Gestão do elenco: O elenco está praticamente irreconhecível em comparação com a versão de 2024, que, apesar do fraco desempenho da equipe, contou com muitos jogadores talentosos — o safety Dillon Thieneman , o defensive end Will Heldt , o tight end Max Klare e o cornerback Kyndrich Breedlove — que foram transferidos para outros programas do Power 4. Odom e sua comissão técnica adicionaram mais de 50 transferências, incluindo algumas que vieram da UNLV, como St. John, o cornerback Tony Grimes e o tight end Christian Moore . Outros notáveis incluem Nunnally e o cornerback Chad Brown ( Nevada ).
Poder de estrela: Muito depende de como transferências como St. John, Nunnally e os safeties Crew Wakley (BYU) e An'Darius Coffey ( Memphis ) se adaptam ao novo time e liga. Purdue tem poucos jogadores remanescentes consagrados, embora o running back veterano Devin Mockobee , que liderou o time em corridas nas últimas três temporadas, certamente possa concorrer ao prêmio All-Big Ten.
Comissão técnica: Odom está de volta a um cargo na Power 4 após elevar a UNLV a patamares históricos nas últimas duas temporadas. Ele trouxe consigo vários assistentes dos Rebels, incluindo o coordenador defensivo Mike Scherer e o técnico de wide receivers Cornell Ford, e se reuniu com o coordenador ofensivo Josh Henson, que ocupava a mesma função sob o comando de Odom no Missouri. Odom também contratou Darin Hinshaw, um veterano coordenador ofensivo da FBS, para treinar os quarterbacks.
Classificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Não. O titular principal Garrett Greene encerrou sua elegibilidade após a temporada de 2024, embora o reserva Nicco Marchiol , que substituiu Greene e tem um histórico de 3-0 como titular da WVU, tenha permanecido na nova comissão técnica.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: Depende muito do verão. Marchiol tem dois anos de elegibilidade e entende o programa depois de passar três temporadas em Morgantown. Mas ele precisa superar Jaylen Henderson , um veterano com passagens por Texas A&M e Fresno State . Henderson é veterano e a vaga seria renovada em 2026, caso ele vença.
Perspectivas da linha ofensiva/defensiva: Como a maioria dos grupos de posições em West Virginia, as linhas defensiva e ofensiva serão drasticamente diferentes a partir de 2024. A WVU se esforçou bastante para encontrar jogadores de linha ofensiva e recorrerá a Walter Young Bear ( Tulsa Golden ), Kimo Makane'ole (LSU) e outros, além de jogadores remanescentes como o center Landen Livingston e o tackle Nick Krahe . A linha defensiva retorna com o veterano Hammond Russell IV , que teve três sacks na temporada passada, e contratou um pass rusher estrela, Jimmori Robinson , da UTSA , além de outras transferências com experiência no Power 4, incluindo Eddie Kelly Jr. (Missouri).
Gestão de elenco: Uma grande rotatividade de elenco é comum quando se fazem mudanças de treinador na era do portal, e West Virginia terá essencialmente um novo time em 2025. Algumas das saídas serão dolorosas, especialmente no ataque, com a saída do lineman Tomas Rimac e outros, mas West Virginia também manteve o líder de corrida Jahiem White e Marchiol no backfield. A equipe fez uma grande contratação no portal em Robinson, que ganhou o prêmio de Jogador Defensivo do Ano da AAC no outono passado, e reforçou áreas como a secundária e o wide receiver, onde Cam Vaughn sucedeu a comissão técnica de Jacksonville State . A troca de treinadores não impediu a WVU de contratar a 40ª classe de recrutamento da ESPN para 2025.
Poder de estrela: Há alguns remanescentes notáveis, incluindo White e Russell, que podem disputar o reconhecimento do All-Big 12. Mas a perspectiva da WVU, pelo menos em 2025, provavelmente dependerá de suas principais transferências, como Robinson, Vaughn e os defensive backs Michael Coats Jr. (Nevada) e Fred Perry (Jacksonville State), corresponderem às expectativas.
Comissão técnica: Rich Rodriguez está, surpreendentemente, de volta à sua terra natal, onde teve um sucesso incrível como técnico dos Mountaineers antes de uma estranha jornada como treinador começar. A comissão técnica conta com uma mistura interessante de técnicos com laços de longa data com Rodriguez — Jeff Casteel, além do filho Rhett Rodriguez, o técnico de quarterbacks do time — e outros vindos de fora.
65. Cavaleiros da UCFClassificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: KJ Jefferson saiu após uma temporada ineficaz na UCF, e Dylan Rizk foi transferido para Stanford. A UCF retornará Jacurri Brown , que teve 66 tentativas de passe em nove jogos no último outono.
Probabilidade de um QB multianual: Possível, dependendo de 2025. Brown está competindo com os transferidos Tayven Jackson (Indiana) e Cam Fancher ( Florida Atlantic ) pela posição principal neste outono. Se Fancher se tornar QB1, a UCF terá um novo titular em 2026, já que ele é veterano.
Perspectivas da linha ofensiva/defensiva: A linha ofensiva está em constante mudança, já que o tackle veterano Paul Rubelt é o único titular que retorna da equipe de 2024. A UCF recorrerá a transferências como Carter Miller , um jogador com menção honrosa no All-Sun Belt pelo Louisiana-Monroe, e Gaard Memmelaar (Washington). Os Knights têm uma boa peça de retorno na linha defensiva, o end veterano Nyjalik Kelly (5,5 sacks, três fumbles forçados) e construirão uma base em torno dele com transferências como Sincere Edwards, do Pitt.
Gestão do elenco: Após uma mudança de técnico um tanto surpreendente, a UCF perdeu 11 jogadores que eram titulares na temporada passada. Ambas as linhas foram duramente atingidas, embora a nova comissão técnica tenha feito transferências e adicionado o running back titular All-MAC Jaden Nixon ( Western Michigan ), além de alguns wide receivers com sucesso em escolas menores, como DJ Black (Limestone) e Chris Domercant ( Chattanooga ).
Estrelas em ascensão: A UCF perdeu seus melhores jogadores — o running back RJ Harvey e o defensive tackle Lee Hunter — de um time com desempenho abaixo do esperado, e será reestruturada sob o comando do novo técnico Scott Frost. Kelly demonstrou capacidade de lutar pelo reconhecimento do All-Big 12, e Nixon e várias das transferências ofensivas podem prosperar no ataque de Frost. Miller será um jogador a ser observado na linha ofensiva.
Comissão técnica: Frost está de volta ao seu sucesso histórico, mas será que ele conseguirá recapturar a magia depois que as coisas mudaram completamente em Nebraska? Ele fez algumas contratações notáveis, incluindo o coordenador defensivo Alex Grinch, que ocupou o mesmo cargo na USC e em Washington State; o técnico de linha ofensiva Shawn Clark, ex-técnico principal do Appalachian State Mountaineers; e o técnico de quarterbacks McKenzie Milton, que se destacou como quarterback de Frost na UCF.
64. Gatos Selvagens do ArizonaClassificação de poder futuro anterior: 25
Quarterback que retorna: Surpreendentemente, sim. A lealdade de Noah Fifita não será esquecida em Tucson. Ele permaneceu no Arizona durante a troca de técnico de Jedd Fisch para Brent Brennan, e não saiu mesmo depois que o time terminou com 4-8 e seus amigos próximos foram para a NFL ou outros times.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: Muito depende da temporada de 2025. Fifita tem elegibilidade para jogar no terceiro ano e pode encerrar sua carreira no Arizona como titular por quatro anos em 2026. Embora seus números tenham caído no último outono em relação aos recordes de 2023, ele ainda teve uma média de 246,5 jardas aéreas por jogo, a melhor da carreira. A preocupação seria se o Arizona tivesse outra temporada ruim e a universidade deixasse Brennan.
Perspectivas da linha ofensiva/defensiva: Após perder a escolha do draft da NFL Jonah Savaiinaea e vários outros pilares da linha ofensiva, o Arizona terá uma visão diferente do ataque neste outono. Os calouros Alexander Doost e Rhino Tapa'atoutai retornam com experiência como titulares, e o Arizona recorreu a Ka'ena Decambra ( Hawai'i ), Ty Buchanan (Texas Tech) e outros. O defensive end veterano Tre Smith é uma boa opção para construir a base, e o end Dominic Lolesio está de volta com vários anos de experiência. O Arizona também recorreu a tackles como Tiaoalii Savea (Texas), Malachi Bailey ( Alcorn State ) e outros para reforçar a profundidade.
Gestão de elenco: Após uma temporada difícil, o Arizona teve um ciclo de transição ativo, que incluiu uma segunda onda de jogadores que saíram para se juntar ao ex-técnico Fisch em Washington. Mas os Wildcats também obtiveram ganhos, incluindo na linha defensiva, no running back ( Ismail Mahdi , do Texas State ), no wide receiver ( Kris Hutson , do Washington State, e Luke Wysong , do New Mexico ) e em outras áreas. O Arizona ficou atrás do rival estadual Arizona State em recrutamento e precisa de uma temporada forte para estabilizar as coisas para Brennan.
Estrelas em ascensão: Fifita tem o histórico e a experiência para estar entre os quarterbacks mais produtivos da Big 12 mais uma vez. O safety Dalton Johnson recebeu menção honrosa da liga no último outono. Mahdi foi duas vezes selecionado para o primeiro time All-Sun Belt, com alguma flexibilidade de uso, e o defensive back Jay'Vion Cole retornou à equipe após obter sucesso sob o comando deles em San Jose State em 2023.
Comissão técnica: Brennan foi uma contratação positiva após a saída abrupta de Fisch, mas uma primeira temporada difícil o pressiona a consolidar seu futuro e o da equipe neste outono. Ele contratou um novo coordenador ofensivo, Seth Doege, promoveu Danny Gonzales a coordenador defensivo e trouxe o veterano das equipes especiais Craig Naivar, entre outros.
Classificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Não. Hank Bachmeier terminou sua carreira universitária liderando Wake Forest com 2.593 jardas aéreas e 16 touchdowns na temporada passada, após paradas anteriores em Louisiana Tech e Boise State.
Probabilidade de um quarterback com contrato de vários anos: Depende do verão. Se Wake Forest contratar Robby Ashford , veterano do sexto ano e jogador experiente em seu quarto time universitário, precisará de um novo titular em 2026. O time teria uma opção de vários anos em Deshawn Purdie , o robusto calouro do segundo ano que jogou em Charlotte na temporada passada.
Perspectivas da linha ofensiva/defensiva: O novo técnico Jake Dickert voltou da primavera entusiasmado com a linha ofensiva, que traz de volta o veterano George Sell e adiciona uma série de transferências, incluindo Fa'alili Fa'amoe e Devin Kylany , que sucederam Dickert vindos de Washington State. Wake Forest também reforçou sua linha defensiva com Gabe Kirschke (Colorado State), Dallas Afalava (Idaho) e outros, complementando jogadores que retornam, como BJ Williams .
Gestão do elenco: A mudança do técnico de longa data Dave Clawson para Dickert trouxe a esperada turbulência no elenco. Wake Forest perdeu os jogadores de linha ofensiva Luke Petitbon (Florida State) e Matt Gulbin (Michigan State), o cornerback Jamare Glasker (Maryland), o wide receiver Horatio Fields (Auburn) e outros notáveis. Mas os Demon Deacons também mantiveram alguns de seus melhores jogadores, incluindo o running back Demond Claiborne e o safety Nick Andersen . A infusão de Dickert na linha ofensiva vinda de Washington State deve ajudar, e Wake Forest também obteve bons ganhos na secundária com Ashaad Williams (North Alabama) e outros. Dickert tentará impulsionar as classes de recrutamento de Wake Forest, que estão na faixa dos 50 no ranking da ESPN.
Estrelas em destaque: O retorno de Claiborne é significativo, pois ele tentará dar continuidade a uma temporada na qual foi selecionado para o terceiro time da All-ACC, tanto como running back quanto como jogador polivalente. Andersen também foi selecionado para o terceiro time da liga. O linebacker Dylan Hazen e o safety Davaughn Patterson estão de volta após anos produtivos. Além disso, há as transferências, incluindo Fa'amoe, Kirschke e Williams.
Comissão técnica: Dickert é um verdadeiro outsider com uma perspectiva diferente, mas sua abordagem pode ser o que Wake Forest precisa na era do portal/receita. Sua comissão técnica inclui vários jogadores importados de Washington State, o veterano coordenador defensivo Scottie Hazelton e o técnico de quarterbacks Dan Enos, mas também promessas como o coordenador ofensivo Rob Ezell.
62. Cowboys do Estado de OklahomaClassificação de poder futuro anterior: 23
Quarterback que retorna: Não. Oklahoma State passou por uma redefinição completa no ataque e entrará no outono com dois QBs pouco comprovados, Zane Flores e Hauss Hejny , competindo pela posição mais alta.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: Muito depende de 2025. Projetar qualquer coisa em Oklahoma State além da próxima temporada é arriscado, mas Flores e Hejny têm elegibilidade para calouros redshirt a partir do outono. Quem se estabelecer como uma opção forte poderá estar bem posicionado para 2026 e além.
Perspectivas da linha ofensiva/defensiva: A linha ofensiva passou por uma reformulação na offseason e se apoiará bastante em suas transferências, incluindo veteranos como Markell Samuel, do Appalachian State, e jogadores mais jovens como Kasen Carpenter, do Tulsa. A linha defensiva do Oklahoma State conta com nomes mais conhecidos, incluindo o tackle Iman Oates , e também adicionou transferências importantes como Kyran Duhon , uma seleção de segunda equipe da All-Conference USA como calouro na UTEP.
Gestão de elenco: Temporadas como a de 2024 do Oklahoma State têm consequências, com 26 jogadores bolsistas sendo transferidos durante o inverno e a primavera. O Oklahoma State não adicionou um quarterback de destaque e traz de volta apenas alguns jogadores — vários na secundária — que tiveram papéis notáveis no último outono. O time precisará que suas transferências se destaquem imediatamente, especialmente nas linhas ofensiva e defensiva. O Oklahoma State continua sendo uma operação de recrutamento de ensino médio bastante discreta, focada em desenvolvimento.
Poder de estrela: A chave será se transferências como Duhon e o linebacker Bryan McCoy (Akron) conseguirão replicar o sucesso de outras escolas na Oklahoma State. A secundária também pode ser um ponto a ser observado, já que os Pokes trazem de volta Parker Robertson , Dylan Smith e Cam Smith , todos com tempo de campo significativo em 2024.
Comissão técnica: Mike Gundy ainda está lá, mas está na berlinda ao entrar em sua 21ª temporada à frente de sua alma mater. Ele substituiu seus dois coordenadores após sua pior temporada e trouxe os veteranos Todd Grantham (defesa) e Doug Meacham (ataque) para supervisionar as unidades. Oklahoma State também tem um novo grupo de treinadores de posição, que inclui Kevin Johns, ex-coordenador ofensivo do Power 4, trabalhando com os quarterbacks.
61. Houston CougarsClassificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Mais ou menos. Zeon Chriss , que foi titular em sete jogos, está de volta para sua terceira temporada. Chriss participou de cerca de metade dos snaps na temporada passada e teve 824 jardas aéreas, quatro touchdowns e oito interceptações. Mas Conner Weigman, transferido do Texas A&M, é amplamente esperado como titular por Houston neste outono.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: Muito possível. Weigman chega com elegibilidade para o terceiro ano após ser titular em 13 jogos no Texas A&M. Ele será elegível para o draft em 2026, mas provavelmente se beneficiaria de vários anos em Houston. Chriss também tem dois anos de elegibilidade.
Perspectiva da linha ofensiva/defensiva: Os Cougars precisavam de mudanças em todo o ataque e as conseguiram, incluindo uma linha onde transferências como Dalton Merryman (Texas Tech), McKenzie Agnello (Novo México) e Matthew Wykoff (Cal) provavelmente terão papéis de destaque. Houston também recupera os titulares David Ndukwe e Demetrius Hunter . A linha defensiva retorna com uma ótima peça central, o veterano Carlos Allen Jr. , e contará com outros remanescentes como Brandon Mack e Latreveon McCutchin , além de transferências como Eddie Walls III (Internacional da Flórida).
Gestão de elenco: Houston mergulhou no portal pela segunda offseason consecutiva sob o comando do técnico Willie Fritz e conseguiu ajuda na linha ofensiva, safety, linha defensiva e tight end, onde Tanner Koziol chegou de Wisconsin. O time sofreu algumas perdas difíceis no portal da primavera, incluindo o safety All-Big 12 AJ Haulcy e o talentoso cornerback Jeremiah Wilson . O recrutamento no ensino médio ainda não causou grande impacto sob o comando de Fritz.
Poder de estrela: A saída de Haulcy deixa Houston sem nenhum jogador que tenha retornado e que tenha entrado para o time All-Big 12 em 2024. Os Cougars retornam com o principal corredor Re'Shaun Sanford II e o principal recebedor Stephon Johnson , mas ambos buscam aumentar sua produção sob o comando do novo coordenador ofensivo Slade Nagle. Allen e Mack brilharam como pass rushers no último outono e valem a pena ficar de olho.
Comissão técnica: Fritz teve que substituir seus dois coordenadores após uma primeira temporada difícil, embora os novos playcallers Nagle (ataque) e Austin Armstrong (defesa) tenham experiência em comandar unidades. Vários treinadores de posições importantes retornam de 2024, especialmente na defesa.
Classificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Não. Billy Edwards Jr. foi transferido para Wisconsin após ser titular em todos os jogos, exceto um, pelos Terrapins em 2024.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: Bastante provável, dependendo do desempenho. Os candidatos de Maryland para substituir Edwards — o transferido da UCLA, Justyn Martin , Khristian Martin e Malik Washington — não são todos veteranos, e Khristian Martin e Washington têm elegibilidade para calouros. Justyn Martin atuou em cinco jogos em três temporadas pela UCLA.
Perspectivas da linha ofensiva/defensiva: Após uma temporada de 4-8, Maryland precisa melhorar na linha ofensiva, que perdeu Andre Roye Jr. , um tackle com experiência como titular, para o portal. Os Terrapins contrataram várias transferências de linha de escolas menores — Rahtrel Perry (Central Connecticut State) e Jayvin James (Akron) — e contrataram o calouro Jaylen Gilchrist , um recruta top 125 da ESPN da Virgínia. A linha defensiva é jovem, com falta de veteranos ou muita produção entre os jogadores que retornam. Maryland obteve vários ganhos na primavera com Cam Rice (Ohio) e Sedrick Smith (Alabama A&M).
Gestão de elenco: Uma temporada difícil em campo em 2024 resultou em mais perdas do que ganhos, com a saída de Edwards, Roye, o defensive lineman Lavon Johnson , o linebacker Caleb Wheatland e outros jogadores de Maryland. Os Terrapins adicionaram um tight end de alta qualidade, Dorian Fleming (Georgia State), algumas transferências sólidas na posição de wide receiver ( Jalil Farooq , Kaleb Webb ) e o cornerback Dontay Joyner , mas ainda têm algumas lacunas na sua formação. O técnico Mike Locksley continua a se destacar no recrutamento de jogadores do ensino médio, contratando a 24ª turma da ESPN para 2025 e mantendo o compromisso do segundo colocado na turma de 2026.
Poder de estrelas: Depois de perder seis escolhas de draft da NFL de um time com 4-8, Maryland precisa de um novo grupo de destaques para emergir. O punter Bryce McFerson foi reconhecido como All-Big Ten no último outono, e o linebacker Daniel Wingate vem de uma sólida segunda temporada. Fleming, selecionado para o primeiro time All-Sun Belt em Georgia State, será destaque no ataque aéreo de Maryland, juntamente com Farooq, titular de 25 jogos em Oklahoma que recebeu menção honrosa ao All-Big Ten em 2023. Joyner demonstrou habilidade de criação de jogadas como cornerback pelo Arkansas State.
Comissão técnica: Locksley está de volta para sua sétima temporada, o que pode ser crucial com um novo diretor de atletismo no comando e pressão para evitar uma repetição de 2024. Ele tem três novos coordenadores veteranos: Pep Hamilton (ataque), Ted Monachino (defesa) e Andre Powell (times especiais), que liderarão um grupo de assistentes que, em sua maioria, retornam da temporada passada.
Classificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Mais ou menos. Blake Shapen abriu a temporada de 2024 como titular do Mississippi State e teve um bom desempenho (974 jardas aéreas, oito touchdowns em quatro jogos) antes de sofrer uma lesão no ombro. Michael Van Buren Jr. assumiu e liderou o ataque do Mississippi State no outono, antes de se transferir para a LSU. Mas Shapen retornará da lesão no ombro que encerrou sua temporada de 2024 após um início promissor.
Probabilidade de um quarterback multianual: Muito depende de Shapen. Se ele retomar o cargo principal, evitar lesões e tiver um bom desempenho, o Mississippi State estará em busca de um novo quarterback em 2026. A equipe contratou Luke Kromenhoek , um dos 160 melhores recrutas nacionais em 2024, que foi titular em dois jogos pelo Florida State como calouro, e trouxe Kamario Taylor , um recruta da ESPN 300 para 2025.
Perspectiva da linha ofensiva/linha defensiva: O Mississippi State precisará de muito mais de sua linha defensiva e foi ao portal para aquisições significativas como os edge Red Hibbler (NC State) e Raishein Thomas (Northern Illinois) e o tackle Will Whitson (Coastal Carolina). Os Bulldogs também trazem de volta o defensive tackle Kai McClendon , que começou cinco jogos como um verdadeiro calouro e registrou 30 tackles. A transferência do Alabama, Jamil Burroughs, também pode ser um fator. O técnico Jeff Lebby se reuniu com o técnico da linha ofensiva Phil Loadholt para elevar um grupo que também incluirá várias transferências, incluindo os tackles Blake Steen (Virginia) e Jesse Ramil (James Madison) e o center Koby Keenum (Kentucky). O left guard Jacoby Jackson , titular de 25 jogos no Mississippi State e no Texas Tech, está de volta ao grupo.
Gestão de elenco: Após um retrospecto de 2-10, o Mississippi State perdeu mais de 30 jogadores para o portal, embora apenas Van Buren, o wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. e alguns outros tenham sido titulares regulares. O time reabasteceu suas linhas ofensiva e defensiva, adicionando mais habilidade ao ataque de Lebby com o running back de destaque do South Alabama, Fluff Bothwell , e vários wide receivers, incluindo Brenen Thompson, de Oklahoma. O Mississippi State também reforçou a secundária com o safety do Old Dominion , Jahron Manning , e outros. Apesar das dificuldades em campo, o Mississippi State contratou a 27ª melhor classe de recrutamento do país para 2025, com destaque para Taylor e o defensor top 150, Tyler Lockhart .
Estrelas em destaque: A defesa retorna com o safety júnior Isaac Smith , que foi eleito para o segundo time da SEC no último outono e liderou a liga com 127 tackles, além de ter forçado um fumble. O running back/retornador veterano Davon Booth também está de volta, após terminar com 1.231 jardas em todos os sentidos no último outono e ser eleito para o terceiro time da SEC como jogador multiuso. Bothwell foi eleito para o segundo time da SEC pelo South Alabama em 2024. Possíveis destaques defensivos incluem o linebacker Nic Mitchell , que retorna, e estreantes como Hibbler e Thomas, que tiveram temporadas produtivas em 2023.
Comissão técnica: Lebby certamente precisa ver melhorias no segundo ano. Ele manteve os coordenadores defensivos Coleman Hutzler e Matt Barnes, assim como o treinador de quarterbacks Matt Holecek, enquanto adicionou Loadholt e vários outros novatos à comissão técnica.
58. Gatos selvagens do noroesteClassificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Mais ou menos. Jack Lausch foi titular em 10 dos 12 jogos da temporada passada, mas é cotado para ser reserva nesta temporada depois que a Northwestern contratou Preston Stone , transferido da SMU.
Probabilidade de um quarterback por vários anos: Altamente improvável. A Northwestern contratou Stone para melhorar significativamente um ataque que terminou em 128º lugar no ranking nacional de pontuação na temporada passada. A menos que haja uma lesão, ele liderará o ataque em seu último ano de elegibilidade.
Perspectiva da linha ofensiva/defensiva: A previsão para a linha ofensiva é dramaticamente melhor do que em 2024, quando a Northwestern mal conseguia escalar um grupo titular. A Northwestern trouxe de volta o left tackle Caleb Tiernan e adicionou vários prováveis titulares, incluindo Evan Beerntsen , de South Dakota State, Xavior Gray, de Liberty, e Martes Lewis , de Minnesota. A linha defensiva retorna praticamente intacta, incluindo o end Anto Saka , um prospecto do draft da NFL de 2026, e o também end Aidan Hubbard .
Gestão de elenco: A Northwestern finalmente se mostrou competitiva no portal de inverno após alguns ajustes nas admissões e contratou sua melhor classe de transferências com Stone, Beerntsen, o wide receiver Griffin Wilde , da South Dakota State, o linebacker Yanni Karlaftis, da Purdue, e outros. Os Wildcats perderam alguns jogadores importantes, incluindo o cornerback Theran Johnson (Oregon) e o offensive lineman Josh Thompson (LSU), mas pelo menos conseguiram preencher vagas. O recrutamento no ensino médio tem sido lento sob o comando de David Braun, cuja classe de 2025 ficou em 73º lugar no ranking nacional.
Estrelas em destaque: Tiernan recebeu menção honrosa no All-Big Ten e entrará na temporada como um dos melhores tackles da liga. Saka pode estar a caminho de uma temporada de destaque, e as esperanças são altas para jovens defensive backs como o cornerback do segundo ano Josh Fussell . O veloz running back Joseph Himon II será mais destaque. Para chegar a um bowl game, a Northwestern precisará de grandes talentos de transferências como Stone, Wilde, Beerntsen e o safety Dillon Tatum (Michigan State).
Comissão técnica: Braun entra em uma terceira temporada significativa, precisando mostrar melhora antes que a Northwestern revele o novo Ryan Field de US$ 850 milhões em 2026. Os coordenadores Tim McGarigle (defesa) e Zach Lujan (ataque) também estão de volta, embora Lujan seja observado de perto após uma primeira temporada difícil na Big Ten. Braun manteve todos os assistentes, exceto um.
57. Cincinnati BearcatsClassificação de poder futuro anterior: Não classificado
Quarterback que retorna: Sim. Brendan Sorsby , uma transferência de Indiana, está de volta ao comando depois de passar para 2.813 jardas e 18 touchdowns, completando 64% de seus passes e correndo para 447 jardas e nove touchdowns no outono passado.
Probabilidade de um QB multianual: Bastante provável, dependendo de 2025. Sorsby tem mais dois anos de elegibilidade e teve uma primeira temporada sólida sob o comando do técnico Scott Satterfield, recebendo menção honrosa no All-Big 12. Outra transferência não pode ser descartada, mas Sorsby certamente pode ser o QB1 de Cincinnati até 2026.
Perspectiva da linha ofensiva/defensiva: A linha defensiva pode ser um ponto forte significativo, com o tackle veterano Dontay Corleone , selecionado para o All-America de 2022 e três vezes homenageado pela All-Conference, liderando o grupo. Cincinnati também recupera o ponta titular Rob Jackson e adiciona os transferidos CJ McCray (Virginia Tech) e Jaylon White-McClain (Old Dominion). A linha ofensiva perde bastante e Cincinnati estava ativa no portal, adicionando os tackles Joe Cotton (South Dakota), Taran Tyo (Ball State) e outros. Cincinnati traz de volta uma boa liderança com o bicampeão Gavin Gerhardt e seu colega veterano Deondre Buford .
Gerenciamento da lista: Cincinnati fez um bom trabalho mantendo Sorsby, Corleone, Tight End Joe Royer e outros jogadores -chave, e abordou o ponto de linha ofensivo e o wide receiver, onde Cyrus Allen (Texas A&M) e outros chegam. Running Back Tawee Walker está em sua terceira parada na faculdade (Wisconsin, Oklahoma) em tantos anos, mas pode reforçar uma ofensa que perde o líder Corey Kiner.
Star Power: Corleone é um dos defensores mais estabelecidos do país e jogará sua última temporada com os Bearcats. Sorsby deve ser um candidato All-Big 12 se ele se basear em seu desempenho de 2024. Royer estará no radar do John Mackey Award depois de receber as honras da primeira equipe após uma temporada de 50 capturas. O apostador Max Fletcher e os zagueiros Jake Golday e Jack Dingle também estarão na mistura para o All-Big 12.
Pessoal para treinadores: Satterfield ainda está procurando sua primeira aparição na tigela em Cincinnati, mas aparentemente tem a lista de entregar um neste outono. A equipe ofensiva permanece em vigor sob o coordenador Brad Glenn, enquanto Satterfield fez alguns ajustes no lado defensivo, incluindo a promoção de Cortney Braswell para co-coordenador.
56. California Golden BearsRanking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: Não. Fernando Mendoza se transferiu para Indiana após uma corrida produtiva em Cal, que pegou a transferência do estado de Ohio Devin Brown no portal. Mendoza completou 68,7% de seus passes para 3.004 jardas na última temporada.
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos: altamente provável. Cal poderia ir com Brown, um júnior que começou no Cotton Bowl após a temporada de 2023 e traz habilidades de dupla ameaça. Ou a equipe poderia recorrer ao novato Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele , um recruta da ESPN 300.
Linha ofensiva/perspectiva de linha defensiva: Cal tem mais respostas sobre defesa, incluindo a frente com retornados como os idosos TJ Bollers , Nate Burrell e Aidan Keanaaina . Liberty Transfer TJ Bush Jr. está listado como um linebacker externo, mas a seleção dos EUA em todas as conferências deve ajudar o passe depois de gravar 5,5 sacos na última temporada. A linha ofensiva terá um sabor de transferência, pois Cal adicionou vários jogadores com experiência inicial, incluindo Tyson Ruffins (Nevada) e Jordan Spasojevic-Moko (Charlotte).
Gerenciamento da lista: o tempo dirá se o portal da primavera de Cal será tão prejudicial quanto parece. Os Bears tinham um êxodo de jogadores ofensivos, incluindo Jack Endries , Jaydn Ott e Jaívian Thomas . Suas substituições não são muito decoradas, embora Cal tenha adicionado o grande receptor Jacob de Jesus , um retornador de destaque da UNLV, no portal de inverno. As adições de linha ofensiva e um talentoso corredor de passes como Bush também podem ajudar, mas os Bears certamente têm buracos entrando em 2025. O recrutamento do ensino médio não foi excessivamente espirituoso, embora Sagapolutele realmente ajude.
Star Power: Cal perde muitas estrelas na defesa, mas também mantém os principais colaboradores como os zagueiros Cade Uluave e Ryan McCulloch . A defesa tem várias transferências de impacto como Bush e o linebacker Harrison Taggart (BYU). A questão maior para Cal será se as substituições no running back, na extremidade apertada e na panela de receptor larga após as partidas do portal.
Equipe de treinador: Justin Wilcox está entrando em sua oitava temporada, mas as coisas parecem um pouco tênues após um final decepcionante para 2024 e uma offseason desafiadora. Ele trouxe Bryan Harsin, ex-treinador de Auburn, Boise State e Arkansas State, para supervisionar a ofensa e promoveu Terrence Brown e Vic So'oto para servir como coordenadores co-defensivos.
Ranking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: sim. Taylen Green está de volta para sua segunda temporada como titular do Arkansas, depois de passar por 3.154 jardas com 15 touchdowns e nove interceptações, e terminando em segundo na equipe correndo com 602 jardas e oito pontos.
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos: altamente improvável. Green é o iniciante entrincheirado para os porcos e entra em sua quinta e última temporada da faculdade, e o quarto como titular da FBS (dois no Boise State, um no Arkansas). A transferência de Madden Iamaleva significa que o calouro do Redshirt KJ Jackson provavelmente voltará a verde.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: Sam Pittman era um treinador de linha ofensiva de carreira antes de aceitar o emprego na Arkansas, mas sua equipe precisa melhorar no início deste outono. O Arkansas deve construir em torno do guarda da terceira equipe, Fernando Carmona , e foi ao portal para seis jogadores de linha. O Corey Robinson II (Georgia Tech) deve começar no ataque esquerdo, enquanto a UCF transferida Caden Kitler pode começar no centro. A linha defensiva perde um jogador produtivo em Landon Jackson e carece de muitos retornados comprovados. A transferência cristã de Abilene, David Oke, deve ajudar por dentro, ao lado de Ian Geffrard de 389 libras e outros. O Arkansas também adicionou várias transferências de borda, incluindo Phillip Lee, de Troy.
Gerenciamento da lista: Não há como revestimento de açúcar as perdas no ataque da NFL e do portal, onde Patrick Kutas (Ole Miss) e vários outros atacantes ofensivos foram depois da temporada passada. O Arkansas também perdeu o grande receptor Isaiah Sategna (Oklahoma), o linebacker Brad Spence (Texas) e outros. A equipe obteve alguns bons ganhos de transferência, especialmente com a linha ofensiva e no wide receiver, final defensivo e final, onde chega Rohan Jones, do estado de Montana. Mas o Arkansas entrará no outono com algumas preocupações em potencial no ataque.
Star Power: Os Razorbacks trazem de volta um jogador de todos os lados de cada lado da bola em Carmona e o linebacker Xavian Sorey Jr. , que liderou a equipe com 99 tackles e empatou a liderança da equipe com 9,5 tackles por derrota no outono passado. Se Green obtiver melhor proteção, ele poderá entrar na conversa da liga. O O'Mega Blake, de grande receptor, teve uma média de 24,8 jardas por captura na última temporada em Charlotte. Robinson, Kitler e os outros homens da linha de transferência devem valer a pena assistir.
Pessoal para treinadores: Pittman merece crédito por reviver o programa após a brutal Era de Chad Morris, mas ele tem apenas 18-22 nas últimas três temporadas e pode estar entrando em seu último ano como o porco. O Arkansas voltará com os coordenadores Travis Wlliams (Defesa) e Bobby Petrino (ofensa) e um pessoal com mudança mínima em relação a 2024.
Ranking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando zagueiro: Não. Depois que uma Odyssey de zagueiros em 2024 não produziu resultados, Wisconsin olhou no Big Ten e levou a transferência de Maryland Billy Edwards Jr. , Que começou durante a última temporada.
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos: baixo. Edwards foi trazido para sua última temporada na faculdade para dar a Wisconsin uma mão constante no quarterback sob o coordenador do primeiro ano Jeff Grimes. Se o backup projetado Danny O'Neil acabar levando a maioria dos representantes, ele poderá liderar o ataque até 2027.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: Wisconsin contratou Grimes em grande parte para recuperar sua vantagem ao longo da linha ofensiva. O centro veterano Jake Renfro está de volta, junto com o guarda Joe Brunner e outros, mas a equipe perdeu o atacante esquerdo projetado Kevin Heywood por uma lesão no LCA. A frente defensiva será transferida pesada, exceto o sênior Ben Barten , quando Wisconsin acrescentou Corey Walker (oeste de Michigan), Charles Perkins (Ut-Martin) e outros.
Gerenciamento da lista: Fickell fez de Wisconsin uma equipe de portal ativa, com resultados mistos até agora. Os Texugos acrescentaram Edwards, uma grande linha defensiva, várias costas defensivas das divisões mais baixas da faculdade ( Matthew Traynor , Geimere Latimer ) e alguma ajuda no jogo que passa. Depois de perder a transferência inicial Tanner Koziol , Wisconsin pegou Lance Mason , do Missouri State, um destaque do FCS. O Wisconsin assumiu mais uma estratégia de recrutamento regional/nacional, mas há preocupação de que a equipe não esteja focada o suficiente em perspectivas no estado.
Star Power: Ricardo Hallman Ricardo é um talento All-Big Ten com habilidade comprovada de jogo, enquanto Joe Huber ganhou o reconhecimento de todas as conferências no outono passado. O Wisconsin está procurando mais atacantes no radar de premiação e precisa de várias de suas transferências, idealmente Edwards, para dar certo neste outono. Retornando o wide receiver Vinny Anthony II forneceu uma faísca no outono passado.
Pessoal para treinadores: o aluguel de Grimes é muito significativo, pois Fickell precisava girar depois que o ataque aéreo nunca realmente voou em Madison. O treinador de Grimes e Line, AJ Blazek, tem a tarefa de restaurar alguns dos elementos de poder que definiram a ofensa de Wisconsin por décadas. A equipe de Fickell tem uma mistura de assistentes mais jovens - como Kenny Guiton - e veteranos como o coordenador defensivo Mike Tressel de volta para uma terceira temporada.
Ranking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: Não. Anthony Colandrea , o titular da Virgínia em 2024, transferido para a UNLV, enquanto os Cavaliers reformulam a sala de zagueiro com duas adições principais do portal. Colandrea teve 2.125 jardas passando com 13 touchdowns e 11 interceptações no outono passado.
Probabilidade de um qb multiríaco: Slim. A Virginia trouxe Chandler Morris como titular projetada em 2025. Morris, filho do ex -técnico da faculdade Chad Morris, reviveu sua carreira na última temporada no norte do Texas, passando por 3.774 jardas e 31 touchdowns para a ofensa número 3 do país. Sua elegibilidade expirará após o outono. A Virginia também acrescentou a transferência de Nebraska Daniel Kaelin , um estudante do segundo ano.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: a Virginia tem opções na linha ofensiva, entre um grupo de jogadores que retornam com experiência inicial, incluindo o tackle McKale Boley e um contingente de transferência que inclui o centro Brady Wilson, da UAB. Uma lesão na primavera do Louisville transfere Monroe Mills Stings, mas a equipe acrescentou James Madison Transfer Tyshawn Wyatt e outros. A Virginia precisa de muito mais passagens de seus atacantes e acrescentou três extremidades - Cazeem Moore (Elon), Mitchell Melton (estado de Ohio) e Fisher Camac (Virgínia) - do portal. O sênior Jahmeer Carter está de volta ao interior, e o Alabama Transfer Hunter Osborne tem um teto alto.
Gerenciamento da lista: Virginia fez seu primeiro grande portal de transferência empurrar neste inverno e primavera, acrescentando Morris e Kaelin no zagueiro, mas também notáveis jogadores de linha ofensivos e defensivos, um grande receptor de Jahmal Edrine , uma segurança talentosa em Devin Neal (Louisville) e outros. Os Hoos também perderam os campos Malaquias de Malaquias para Notre Dame e sofreram alguns acertos na linha ofensiva, mas seus ganhos ultrapassaram as partidas. A Virginia está procurando impulso semelhante no recrutamento do ensino médio depois de assinar a classe nº 52 para 2025.
Star Power: O linebacker Kam Robinson ganhou honras honrosas em 2024, depois de liderar a Virgínia com cinco interceptações e terminar em segundo lugar em tackles com 64. Outro zagueiro se juntará a ele no mix All-ACC? Neal é certamente o que assistir. A corrida de volta ao Xavier Brown teve uma média de 6,1 jardas por transporte para a Virgínia no outono passado e deve ter um papel maior. Wilson é um atacante e Edrine terá um grande papel no receptor.
Pessoal para treinadores: Tony Elliott tem apenas 11-23 na Virgínia, mas há otimismo para o ano 4 com uma lista atualizada em várias posições. Elliott manteve a continuidade da equipe, enquanto os coordenadores des Kitchings (ataque) e John Rudzinski (Defesa) retornam, juntamente com todos os treinadores de posição.
Ranking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: Não. O quarterback primário Brock Vandagriff se foi após uma temporada no Reino Unido. Ele completou apenas 57,3% de seus passes com 10 touchdowns e oito interceptações no outono passado. Kentucky voltou ao portal para o frequentemente viajado Zach Calzada , que passou um tempo na Texas A&M e Auburn antes de duas temporadas com a palavra encarnada do FCS.
Probabilidade de um qb multiríaco: Slim. Kentucky passou por zagueiros de um ano na era do portal e os números para fazer o mesmo com Calzada, um dos zagueiros mais experientes do país com 32 partidas da FBS ou FCS. Cutter Cutter Boley e Beau Allen , que está em sua segunda passagem pelo Kentucky, estão prontos para fazer backup de Calzada.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: Kentucky precisa ter sua linha ofensiva correta para recuperar o sucesso que ocorreu durante a maior parte do mandato do treinador Mark Stoops. A equipe acrescentou 11 recém-chegados à linha, incluindo a seleção de Alexander Wollschlaeger da primeira equipe de Bowling Green, Shiyazh Pete, do Estado do Novo México, e Josh Braun, de Arkansas. Kentucky traz de volta algumas peças interiores em Jalen Farmer e Jager Burton . A linha defensiva não tem tantas transferências, mas algumas importantes em Mi'Quise Grace , o jogador defensivo do ano em Missouri no ano em Dakota do Sul e David Gusta , do estado de Washington, um titular de 24 jogos. Kentucky também recupera os idosos Kahlil Saunders e Josaih Hayes .
Gerenciamento da lista: Kentucky precisava de uma redefinição em sua linha ofensiva e provavelmente atualizou o grupo através do portal. Enquanto isso, o amplo receptor foi atingido por Dane Key e as partidas de Barion Brown e precisará de substituições como Kendrick Law (Alabama) para intensificar. Kentucky certamente precisa de Calzada para ter um desempenho melhor que Vandagriff, embora a linha ofensiva remodelada desempenhe um papel lá. O ataque também pegou o líder do Nebraska, Dante Dowdell .
STAR POWER: As melhores equipes do treinador Mark Stoops têm destaques na defesa. Jogadores que retornam como o linebacker Alex Afari Jr. , que lideraram a equipe em tackles por derrota (11,5) no outono passado, valem a pena assistir. Grace teve números incríveis em Dakota do Sul no ano passado - 9,5 sacos, 17 tackles por perda - e tentará traduzir sua produção na SEC. Wollschlaeger é outra adição essencial ao longo da linha de scrimmage. Calzada já esteve na SEC antes e deve ser melhor depois de reiniciar sua carreira no FCS.
Equipe de treinador: Stoops está de volta para o ano 13 e, embora seu perfil geral se destaque, há algumas preocupações sobre se as coisas ficaram obsoletas desde a temporada de 10 vitórias de 2021. Ele sofreu uma grande perda com a medula de Vince, cuja nuvem de recrutamento lhe deu um salário de sete dígitos em Kentucky, deixado para o rival Louisville para se tornar um gerente geral. O coordenador defensivo veterano Brad White está de volta, assim como o coordenador ofensivo Bush Hamdan, apesar das lutas da unidade no outono passado. Os treinadores de posição de 2024 também estão principalmente de volta.
51. Michigan State SpartansRanking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback : sim. Aidan Chiles , que seguiu o treinador Jonathan Smith do estado de Oregon para a MSU, entrará em sua segunda temporada como iniciante dos espartanos.
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos: Provavelmente. Chiles carrega a elegibilidade júnior e tem uma grande familiaridade com Smith, o coordenador ofensivo Brian Lindgren e a equipe. Seus backups são todos jovens jogadores. Chiles poderia ter uma temporada de breakout e seguir em frente, mas poucos ficariam surpresos se ele estivesse liderando o ataque da MSU em 2026.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: a única escolha de draft da NFL do estado de Michigan veio da linha ofensiva em Luke Newman, e a frente terá uma aparência diferente neste outono. Os espartanos foram ao portal para o cobiçado tackle Conner Moore (estado de Montana), guarda sênior/centro Matt Gulbin (Wake Forest) e outros. Além de Gulbin, a MSU não tem muitos idosos na rotação. Os espartanos retornam alguns atacantes defensivos rotacionais e adicionaram dois recrutas de linha defensiva de três estrelas na classe 2025 e atacam Grady Kelly (Estado da Flórida) e End Isaac Smith (Texas Tech) do portal de transferência.
Gerenciamento da lista: A lista do Michigan State foi bastante fluida sob Smith, com transferências entrando e saindo, mas a equipe manteve o grande receptor Nick Marsh , um de seus melhores jovens jogadores e vários outros chaves -chave. A equipe obteve alguns ganhos portal, especialmente em pontos como receptor amplo, linha ofensiva e costas defensivas. Smith ficou bastante quieto no recrutamento do ensino médio, embora a equipe tenha um compromisso da Prospect Kayd Coffman da ESPN 300 para a classe 2026.
Star Power: Michigan State perdeu o All-Big Ten Player Newman para o líder de draft e interceptações Charles Brantley para o portal (Miami). Marsh e o veterano Jack Velling, Jack Velly, têm potencial para todas as conferências, e Chiles é um talentoso quarterback que busca mais consistência. A MSU estará apostando em grande produção de transferências como Moore e Wide Receptores Chrishon McCray e Omari Kelly .
Equipe de treinador: Smith entra em sua segunda temporada com mudanças mínimas na equipe, já que os coordenadores Lindgren e Joe Rossi estão de volta. Jon Boyer, que havia trabalhado com Smith no estado de Oregon, ingressou na equipe como treinador de zagueiros, e a MSU contratou James Adams da Wake Forest para trabalhar com as seguranças. Mas o tema principal da continuidade permanece.
50. Kansas JayhawksRanking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: sim. Jalon Daniels ainda está em Lawrence, depois de passar por uma temporada sem um grande revés de lesão, mas não gera os resultados gerais que ele queria. Daniels entra em sua sexta e última temporada da faculdade com 6.751 jardas passantes e 1.043 jardas, representando 64 touchdowns (45 passes, 19 rush).
Probidade de um QB de vários anos: muito pequeno. Daniels terá todas as oportunidades para liderar o ataque do Kansas em sua última temporada na faculdade. O segundo ano do segundo ano Cole Ballard jogou um pouco e aparentemente poderia assumir o controle em 2026.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: o Kansas deve se sentir bem com sua frente defensiva com Dean Miller , que liderou a equipe com seis sacos no outono passado. Os Jayhawks também retornam peças interiores sólidas em Caleb Taylor , DJ Withers e Tommy Dunn Jr. A linha ofensiva tem uma mistura de iniciantes veteranos (Center Bryce Foster e Guard Kobe Baynes ), uma potencial estrela em ascensão no segundo ano, Calvin Clements e vários recém -chegados ou jogadores que entram em holofotes maiores. O Kansas também recebeu várias transferências interessantes, incluindo Tyler Mercer, do norte do Texas, e Jack Tanner, de Tulsa.
Gerenciamento da lista: o Kansas perdeu muitos colaboradores importantes para a graduação, mas manteve amplamente os jogadores que desejava para uma possível temporada de salto em 2025. A equipe também adicionou ao portal em várias posições, incluindo o linebacker ( Joseph Sipp Jr. , Bangally Kamara , Trey Lathan ), receptor amplo, linha ofensiva, barreira e costas. O Kansas precisará de uma boa taxa de acerto em suas transferências para romper neste outono. O recrutamento do Kansas High School está começando forte para 2026, com a ESPN 300 Safety JJ Dunnigan e outros.
Star Power: Quando saudável, Daniels ainda pode ser um dos quarterbacks de dupla ameaça mais elétricos do país. Ele estará jogando para um grupo diferente de receptores, mas Kansas gosta do que acrescentou do portal com Emmanuel Henderson Jr. (Alabama), Cam Pickett (Ball State) e outros. Miller definitivamente estará no radar All-BIG-12, bem como em alguns dos atacantes ofensivos que retornam. O Running Back Transfer Leshon Williams ganhou honras honrosas para o All-Big Ten Honors enquanto lidera o Iowa em 2023.
Pessoal para treinadores: o treinador Lance Leipold trabalhará ao lado de seu terceiro coordenador ofensivo em tantas temporadas, mas um rosto familiar em Jim Zebrowski, promovido do coordenador e treinador de zagueiros. O coordenador veterano Matt Lubick se juntou à equipe como co-OC, e Leipold promoveu DK McDonald ao coordenador defensivo depois que Brian Borland se aposentou.
Ranking Future Power Future anterior: não classificado.
Retornando quarterback: Não. Ethan Garbers encerrou sua carreira na UCLA em 2024 e assinou com o Carolina Panthers como um agente livre não -elaborado.
Probidade de um QB multipernizador: possível, mas não pode contar com isso. A transferência do Tennessee, Nico Iamaleva, tem três anos de elegibilidade, mas ele será elegível na NFL em 2026 e poderá procurar iniciar sua carreira profissional. Ele também poderia se transferir novamente.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: a linha ofensiva será um grupo fluido e um para assistir entrando nesta temporada, pois Garrett Digiorgio é a única constante. A UCLA acrescentou várias transferências do Power 4, incluindo Courtland Ford (Kentucky). A linha defensiva também terá uma aparência diferente com Jay Toia para a NFL, embora veteranos como Siale Taupaki e Devin Aupiu estejam de volta.
Gerenciamento da lista: o portal da primavera mudou a perspectiva da UCLA como Iamaleva, um recruta entre os 25 melhores em 2023, é um potencial divisor de águas para o programa do treinador Deshaun Foster. A UCLA também acrescentou a transferência de running back Jaívian Thomas de Cal e potencialmente solidificou sua futura perspectiva de QB com o irmão mais novo de Idelava, Madden, uma dos 150 melhores da classe de 2025. Os Bruins também carregaram no secundário com transferências do Power 4 e adicionadas ao receptor com Mikey Matthews de Cal.
STAR POWER: O teto de Iamaleva é incrivelmente alto, embora ele esteja se ajustando a muitas coisas em um curto período de tempo. Outras transferências poderiam ser todos os dez candidatos, incluindo Thomas, que tiveram um forte final em Cal no outono passado, e costas defensivas como Andre Jordan Jr. (Estado de Oregon) e Benjamin Perry (Louisville). Digiorgio será um dos jogadores ofensivos mais experientes do Big Ten.
Equipe técnica: Depois de manter os assistentes de Chip Kelly no ano 1, Foster revisou a equipe na entressafra. Ele contratou Tino Sunseri de Indiana como coordenador ofensivo e trouxe assistentes com laços da UCLA/Costa Oeste como Demetrice Martin, Burl Toler III, Jethro Franklin e AJ Steward. O coordenador defensivo Ikaika Malloe foi um dos únicos repelentes de 2024.
48. Vanderbilt CommodoresRanking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: sim. Diego Pavia está de volta para eletrificar a SEC e o futebol universitário por mais um ano, depois de receber uma renúncia para jogar uma temporada extra desde que ele começou no Junior College. Pavia estava no centro dos grandes momentos de Vanderbilt em 2024, passando por 2.293 jardas e 20 touchdowns e liderando a equipe correndo com 801 jardas e oito touchdowns.
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos: extremamente improvável. Vanderbilt construiu sua ofensa em torno de Pavia, o catalisador como passador e como corredor. Pavia seguirá em frente após a temporada de 2025 e Vanderbilt pode ir com a Reserva Veterana Drew Dickey ou um jogador com mais experiência de jogo através do portal.
Linha ofensiva/perspectiva de linha defensiva: Pavia está de volta, mas jogará por trás de uma linha ofensiva de aparência diferente em 2025. Chase Mitchell , que entra em sua terceira temporada da FBS como titular, o único pilares retornando, como Vanderbilt acrescentou Jordan White (Liberty), Isa Glass (Oklahoma State), Bryce Herson Herson (Sul) (Liberty), Isa Glass (Oklahoma do estado) , Bryce Herson . A linha defensiva tem menos perguntas prementes, pelo menos com o primeiro grupo, apesar da transferência de De'Marion Thomas para o estado de Oklahoma. Vanderbilt devolve uma vantagem produtiva em alcaparras de Miles Senior (3 sacos, 8 tackles por perda, 3 fumbles forçados em 2024), outras opções experientes como Yilanan Ouattara e Zaylin Wood e um jovem jogador promissor no segundo ano de Glent Seabrooks III . A transferência do Texas Aaron Bryant deve ajudar, mas os Commodores ainda estão procurando mais profundidade geral.
Star Power: Pavia ganhou as honras da segunda equipe da AP e estará no radar da liga e possivelmente honras nacionais como artista imperdível. Mais uma vez, ele jogará para Stowers, uma seleção de primeira equipe que liderou Vandy com 49 recepções por 638 jardas no outono passado. Hight teve uma média de 14,7 jardas em retornos de ponta e empatou a liderança da equipe com duas interceptações. Os linebackers se projetam como um dos melhores grupos da SEC, enquanto os principais atacantes retornam junto com Rinaldi, que teve seis sacos de alta equipe no outono passado. Os jogadores que retornam de Vanderbilt nos três níveis da defesa dão ao técnico Clark Lea sua melhor unidade, o que deve refletir nas opções de todas as conferências.
Equipe de treinador: Lea tem a chance de construir alguma consistência em sua alma mater e refletiu a abordagem em uma equipe que não mudará muito, exceto por determinadas responsabilidades. O técnico secundário Steve Gregory administrará a defesa, um papel que Lea assumiu em 2024, enquanto o treinador dos zagueiros Nick Lezynski foi promovido a coordenador co-defensivo. Tim Beck continuará supervisionando a equipe ofensiva e a trabalhar com Pavia, a quem treinou no Estado do Novo México.
47. Boston College EaglesRanking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: sim. Grayson James emergiu como iniciante do Boston College durante a segunda metade da temporada e está de volta depois de passar por 1.202 jardas e seis touchdowns, além de adicionar três pontuações de corrida.
Probidade de um QB de vários anos: depende da pré -temporada. James está entrando em sua última temporada na faculdade, e o Boston College precisará de um novo QB em 2026 se ele mantiver o trabalho. Mas a equipe também trouxe o Alabama Transfer Dylan Lonergan , um ex-recruta dos 40 primeiros com elegibilidade no segundo ano.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: as melhores equipes do BC prosperam na linha ofensiva, mas o grupo está entrando em um ano de transição depois de perder três iniciantes para a NFL. O tackle esquerdo Jude Bowry tem um teto alto e Logan Taylor é um dos homens de linha mais experientes do ACC. Os Eagles devem construir ao seu redor com outras regiões e transferências como Tommy Matheson, de Princeton. A linha defensiva do BC também foi atingida com o corredor recorde de passes Donovan Ezeiruaku foi para o draft. O grupo tem vários retornados, incluindo os idosos Quintayvie Hutchins e Owen Stoudmire . A corrida do passe será uma área para assistir após um grande pico em 2024.
Gerenciamento da lista: o treinador Bill O'Brien não quer ser um programa de transferência de volume e, embora o Boston College tenha perdido alguns jogadores, priorizou a retenção e aumentando as áreas-alvo como as linhas ofensivas e defensivas, onde vários corredores de passe para pequenas faculdades se juntam à lista. Lonergan também pode ser significativo para o futuro do programa. O foco de recrutamento no estado e regional de O'Brien está aparecendo, já que a classe 2026 do Boston College ocupa o 22º lugar nacionalmente.
STAR POWER: Mais um ano sob O'Brien poderia aumentar a ofensa e jogadores como James, liderando o wide receiver Lewis Bond (67 capturas, 689 jardas recebidas em 2024) e Jeremiah Franklin . Taylor ganhou honras honrosas em todas as duas últimas offseasons. Hutchins será mais um Rusher de passagem depois de gravar 3,5 sacos e oito cursos de quarterback na última temporada.
Pessoal para treinadores: O'Brien assumiu o trabalho do BC muito tarde e se beneficiará de uma entressafra completa, enquanto se baseia em uma estréia de 7 vitórias. A equipe retorna principalmente intacta com os coordenadores primários Tim Lewis (Defesa) e Will Lawing (ofensa) ambos voltando.
Ranking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: sim. Kyron Drones está de volta para sua temporada sênior, após uma campanha 2024 um pouco decepcionante, na qual terminou com 1.562 jardas, 10 touchdowns e seis interceptações em nove jogos.
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos: altamente improvável. Os Hokies estão programados para andar com drones uma última vez, esperando o brilho de dupla ameaça que ele exibia às vezes em 2023. O veterano Pop Watson também retorna com a elegibilidade do segundo ano.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: o novo treinador ofensivo Matt Moore trouxe várias transferências com ele da Virgínia Ocidental, principalmente Tomas Rimac , uma menção honrosa da seleção All-Big 12 no outono passado. Os Hokies também pegaram o Auburn Reserve Jaden Muskrat no portal da primavera para ajudar com profundidade, pois apenas alguns jogadores de linha com o retorno da experiência inicial. Tackle defensivo Kelvin Gilliam Jr. Começou seis jogos na última temporada e está de volta, e a Virginia Tech adicionou várias transferências veteranas ao seu redor, incluindo o destaque do FCS Arias Nash (Mercer) e James Djonkam (Eastern Michigan), que se mudaram de linebacker para Edge nesta primavera.
Gerenciamento da lista: Após uma temporada que ficou aquém das expectativas, a Virginia Tech não surpreendentemente perdeu vários jogadores importantes, especialmente na sala de linha ofensiva e no secundário. Os Hokies mantiveram os drones, além de produtivos de linebacker Tandem Jaden Keller e Caleb Woodson . O RIMAC ajudará imediatamente a frente, junto com vários jogadores ofensivos mais jovens da Virgínia Ocidental. O Bowling Green Transfer Terion Stewart ajudará a preencher a produção de perder o Bhayshul Tuten. Djonkam e Nash estão entre as transferências de impacto na defesa. As duas últimas aulas de recrutamento da Virginia Tech pairaram em torno de 40º lugar nacionalmente.
Star Power: Drones é capaz de disputar as honras de todas as ligas com melhor saúde e desempenho. Ele terá ajuda em ofensa com transferências como Rimac e Stewart, uma seleção de primeiro-mac em 2024. Keller e Woodson são jogadores comprovados que podem liderar a defesa até 2026, enquanto o kicker John Love , uma menção honrosa para seleção de todos os acessos após a conexão com 16 de 18 tentativas de gols, também está de volta. Djonkam é outro jogador para assistir após uma temporada produtiva no leste de Michigan.
Pessoal para treinadores: Brent Pry tem 16-21 na Virginia Tech e deve oferecer melhores resultados neste outono para garantir seu futuro. Ele tem dois novos coordenadores em Philip Montgomery, o ex -técnico de Tulsa, que supervisionará o ataque, e o coordenador defensivo Sam Siefkes, que veio da NFL. Pry manteve sua posição treinadores de 2024.
Ranking de poder futuro anterior: não classificado
Retornando quarterback: sim. A transferência do Alabama, Eli Holstein, liderou Pitt com 2.228 jardas passantes, 17 touchdowns e 10 interceptações na última temporada. Nate Yarnell também jogou significativamente e transferido, mas Holstein está de volta com os Panteras.
Probabilidade de um QB de vários anos: muito provável. Holstein será um segundo ano do segundo ano em 2025, mais uma vez trabalhando sob o coordenador ofensivo Kade Bell, que melhorou a unidade substancialmente no outono passado. Outra transferência é sempre possível, mas Holstein está na fila para liderar a ofensa por um tempo.
Perspectivas ofensivas de linha/linha defensiva: Pitt precisa da linha ofensiva para melhorar após um desempenho decepcionante em 2024. A equipe procurará vistos veteranos como o atacante Ryan Baer , mas também várias transferências, incluindo Kendall Stanley (Charlotte) e Keith Gouveia (Richmond). A linha defensiva tem menos perguntas imediatas, já que o talentoso corredor de passes Jimmy Scott (seis sacos em 2024) está de volta por pelo menos mais um ano, junto com os tackles Sean Fitzsimmons , Nick James e outros. As transferências Blaine Spiers (Estado de Utah) e Jaeden Moore (Oregon) devem ajudar na frente.
Roster management: The Panthers lost more numbers in the portal than they gained and will miss several departing defenders. But they also got help for key areas, especially both lines but also wide receiver and in the secondary. Pitt retained one of the ACC's better offensive backfields in Holstein and running back Desmond Reid , a first-team all-league selection. Standout linebacker Kyle Louis and others are also back for 2025. Pitt's recruiting classes have hovered in the mid-40s nationally, but coach Pat Narduzzi has a good eye for talent.
Star power: Reid nearly reached 1,000 rushing yards in 2024 and will return as one of the ACC's top running backs and punt returners. Louis, who had four interceptions and seven sacks from the linebacker spot, is a definite Butkus Award candidate and could contend for even more. Fellow linebacker Rasheem Biles also comes off an All-ACC season. The key will be whether Pitt's line transfers hit right away, especially players such as Stanley and Spires.
Coaching staff: Narduzzi is entering his 11th season and has stability on his staff with Bell and longtime defensive coordinator Randy Bates back for 2025. The key for 2026 might be keeping Bell, a young, on-the-rise playcaller who capitalized on his opportunity last season.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Not really. Jacolby Criswell started the majority of games for UNC last fall but transferred to East Tennessee State in January. North Carolina brought in South Alabama transfer Gio Lopez as its likely 2025 starter. But Max Johnson , the former Texas A&M and LSU quarterback who started the 2024 opener for UNC before sustaining a broken leg, is still with the Heels, hoping for one final opportunity.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Fairly likely. Predicting anything at North Carolina beyond 2025 is tricky, but Lopez has three seasons of eligibility remaining after recording 2,559 passing yards and 18 touchdowns, and 465 rushing yards and seven scores last year at South Alabama. UNC also landed Bryce Baker , ESPN's No. 5 dual-threat quarterback in the 2025 class.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Like many groups at North Carolina, the defensive line will rely mostly on transfers this fall. The team picked up a nice player in UConn's Pryce Yates , as well as several Power 4 players with potential, including Arizona's Isaiah Johnson . UNC also was active in the portal for offensive linemen, adding Troy's Daniel King and others in the winter, and Jacksonville State's Will O'Steen in the spring. But the difference on the O-line is the return of Heels starters Trevyon Green , Austin Blaske and Aidan Banfield . Blaske and Banfield initially entered the portal after UNC made its coaching change but then opted to stay.
Roster management: The roster has been reshaped several times since coach Bill Belichick arrived, including in the spring when key defenders Beau Atkinson (Ohio State) and Amare Campbell (Penn State) left for the Big Ten. UNC made gains with players such as Lopez, King, Boise State linebacker Andrew Simpson and several defenders who moved with defensive coordinator Steve Belichick from Washington, including cornerback Thaddeus Dixon and Khmori House . The team also retained key linemen in Blaske and Banfield, and wide receiver Kobe Paysour . Bill Belichick landed Baker and others to finalize the 2025 class, and 2026 recruiting is off to a very strong start with the No. 13 class.
Star power: UNC lost its All-ACC players from 2024 and will be leaning on its transfers and a few holdovers to populate that list in future seasons. Lopez will be in the spotlight, and Simpson comes in with All-Mountain West honors from Boise State. Dixon earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors at Washington and should contend for similar recognition at UNC. The key will be whether a new staff can get more out of holdovers such as Green, Paysour and running back Davion Gause .
Coaching staff: Belichick's arrival is unlike any in recent college football history and makes predicting the next few seasons next to impossible. His recruiting gains are encouraging, though, and North Carolina has a fairly favorable 2025 schedule that should help with such a reshaped roster. The staff includes two of Belichick's sons, former UConn coach Bob Diaco, several veteran assistants and one holdover, former Cleveland Browns coach Freddie Kitchens.
Bill Belichick tells 'SportsCenter' he approaches UNC with a pro mindset to prepare players both on and off the field.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Athan Kaliakmanis will enter his second season as Rutgers' starter after starting for a year and a half at Minnesota. He was the only Big Ten player to make every pass attempt for his team in 2024 and finished with 2,696 passing yards and 18 touchdowns.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very slim. Kaliakmanis is Rutgers' established starter, has a long history with offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca and will be out of eligibility after 2025. The team's other quarterbacks carry sophomore or freshman eligibility.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The offensive line projects as a clear strength for Rutgers this fall, as long as it can replace All-Big Ten left tackle Hollin Pierce. Veterans such as Gus Zilinskas and Kwabena Asamoah are back, and Rutgers regains Bryan Felter , a 2023 honorable mention All-Big Ten selection who missed the second half of last season with injury. Rutgers' defensive line will be less reliant on returnees, although end Jordan Walker and others will factor in. The key there will be transfers, especially prized pickups such as Eric O'Neill , who had 13 sacks for James Madison last season.
Roster management: Rutgers had its roster set up for a big 2024 season and must replace three NFL draft picks and other key players. The team lost some familiar names on defense in the portal but also made key gains, including O'Neill, Ohio Edge Bradley Weaver , Marshall CB Jacobie Henderson and several contributors in the passing game, including North Texas wide receiver DT Sheffield . Rutgers' high school recruiting has improved, including ESPN's No. 28 class for 2025 and a 2026 class that currently ranks 19th nationally.
Star power: The offensive line is an area to watch as Zilinskas, Asamoah and Felter all have earned All-Big Ten recognition in their careers. Junior wide receiver Ian Strong is also worth watching after a five-touchdown season. But if Rutgers improves its wins total, transfers such as O'Neill, Weaver and others will be making an immediate impact and contending for all-league honors and possibly more.
Coaching staff: Coach Greg Schiano sets the tone for all things at Rutgers and understands how to navigate the environment. He retained Ciarrocca and the offensive staff, but the defensive side will have a new look with Robb Smith -- beginning his third stint as a Rutgers defensive coordinator -- and Zach Sparber taking over as co-DCs.
Previous future power ranking : Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. NC State's 2024 season fell short of expectations, but CJ Bailey 's emergence at quarterback was a major bright spot. He completed nearly 65% of his passes with 17 touchdowns, while adding five rushing scores.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very high. Bailey is a true sophomore and will be the centerpiece of NC State's offense. He'll once again be coached by Kurt Roper, who was elevated to offensive coordinator. Although a transfer can never be ruled out, NC State is all-in on Bailey.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Both groups lose All-ACC performers, and Davin Vann 's departure certainly will be felt on the defensive front. The good news is NC State retains Travali Price , who had 3.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss in 2024, and veteran interior lineman Brandon Cleveland . Utah State transfer Cian Slone , a second-team All-Mountain West selection last fall, joins the group. NC State returns one of the ACC's most experienced linemen in guard Anthony Carter Jr . (26 career starts), as well as tackle Jacarrius Peak . Transfers Teague Andersen (Utah State) and Jalen Grant (Purdue) should be immediate contributors.
Roster management: NC State took some hits in the portal, especially in the secondary with Bishop Fitzgerald (USC), Tamarcus Cooley (LSU) and Brandon Cisse (South Carolina) moving on. The team didn't add a ton of transfers but addressed defensive needs at linebacker -- Slone, Tra Thomas ( Temple Owls ), Kenny Soares Jr . (Northwestern), AJ Richardson ( Norfolk State ) -- and in the back end. Anderson and Grant should help offset some of the O-line losses. After signing the No. 27 recruiting class in 2024, NC State dipped to No. 43 this year.
Star power: NC State thinks Bailey can be one of the ACC's top quarterbacks, as he has size, accuracy and the ability to move around. Senior linebacker Sean Brown earned honorable mention All-ACC honors last season, when he led the team in tackles (96) and quarterback hurries (13). Price is another returnee to watch on defense, and NC State is bullish on top running back Hollywood Smothers . The key will be whether any transfers enter the All-ACC mix.
Coaching staff: Doeren is entering his 13th season at NC State and has only one losing regular season since his debut in 2013. But this fall feels important after the team backslid in 2024, and Doeren has new coordinators in Roper and DJ Eliot (defense), who worked together at Colorado in 2018. The staff is filled with veteran position coaches, including Joker Phillips and Garett Tujague.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: No. Kyle McCord is NFL-bound after leading the FBS with 4,779 passing yards during his only season with the Orange. McCord had all but three pass attempts for Syracuse in 2024.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Syracuse finds itself in an interesting spot after naming LSU transfer Rickie Collins its starter this spring, but then adding Notre Dame QB Steve Angeli in the portal. Both Collins and Angeli have multiple years of eligibility left. The key is who will emerge as the starter.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The new quarterback will be playing behind a largely revamped line, as Syracuse loses quite a bit of experience up front. Mark Petry will have a key role as he moves from guard to center, and the team also will lean on returnees Da'Metrius Weatherspoon and Trevion Mack at the tackle spots, as well as South Carolina transfer Kam Pringle and Louisville transfer Austin Collins . Syracuse added defensive line transfers Chris Thomas Jr . ( Marshall ), Dion Wilson Jr . ( New Mexico State ) and David Reese (Cal) to support some holdovers entering bigger roles.
Roster management: The team saw All-ACC wide receiver Trebor Pena , defensive lineman Maraad Watson and several others transfer to Power 4 programs but added more than it lost. Coach Fran Brown bolstered the quarterback room with Collins and Angeli, while adding to both lines with some experienced players from major programs. Brown has not surprisingly improved Syracuse's high school recruiting in the Northeast, and the 2026 class ranks No. 8 nationally, highlighted by ESPN 300 defensive end Kamron Wilson.
Star power: Syracuse was represented very well on the 2024 All-ACC teams, but all of those players have moved on to pro ball or other college teams. Nixon's offense provides opportunities for stardom, whether that's for Collins or Angeli, a new wide receiver or several of the returning linemen (Petry) and transfers (Pringle). The safety spot is another spot to watch as veterans Duce Chestnut and Devin Grant are both back after productive seasons.
Coaching staff: Brown exceeded all external expectations in his first season, bringing a different flavor and philosophy to a program that needed a jolt. He retained primary coordinators Jeff Nixon (offense) and Elijah Robinson (defense) despite some outside interest, while adding a new special teams coordinator in Ricky Brumfield.
40. Minnesota Golden GophersPrevious future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: No. Max Brosmer has moved on after his one season as Minnesota's QB1, and backup Drake Lindsey is in line to be the team's starter after five pass attempts in three games last fall.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Rather than go to the portal for another QB filler, Minnesota groomed Lindsey for this moment. If he performs as expected, Lindsey should lead Minnesota's offense through at least the 2026 season.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The offensive line is in an interesting spot as Aireontae Ersery and others move on to the NFL and the portal. Minnesota will be transfer-heavy up front other than Greg Johnson and Ashton Beers and needs better overall results with an unproven quarterback. Anthony Smith is a potential high-level pass rusher, and Deven Eastern brings production to the interior line, but Minnesota will need its transfers to deliver.
Roster management: Minnesota hit the portal hard on offense, adding linemen such as Kentucky's Dylan Ray and UCF's Marcellus Marshall , and wide receivers such as Javon Tracy ( Miami of Ohio ) and Logan Loya (UCLA). The Gophers were more selective on defense but added cornerback Jaylen Bowden from North Carolina Central . Minnesota has a consistent but unflashy recruiting approach.
Star power: Cornerback Koi Perich earned first-team All-Big Ten honors in 2024 and likely will have a role on offense. Running back Darius Taylor is an effective rusher when healthy, and Smith could be primed for a breakout season at defensive end. Minnesota's success always hinges on its line play, and the offensive line transfers are worth tracking.
Coaching staff: PJ Fleck enters his ninth season at Minnesota and keeps a consistent approach, even when losing notable assistants. The Gophers have continuity on their offensive staff with Greg Harbaugh Jr. and Matt Simon back as coordinators, and seek the same on defense after promoting Danny Collins, a longtime Fleck assistant, to coordinator.
Previous future power ranking: 9
Returning quarterback: Somewhat. Primary starterDJ Uiagalelei missed the second half of the season with injury, which required Brock Glenn to make five starts. But Glenn likely will be slotted behind Tommy Castellanos , the Boston College transfer who started 20 games for the Eagles.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Unlikely. Castellanos, a dual threat who initially started college at UCF to play for current Florida State offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn, should get the first opportunity in his final year of eligibility. In 2023, he became the first Boston College player to eclipse 2,000 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards. If FSU turns away from Castellanos, it has Glenn and a few other non-senior options.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The Seminoles' defensive front has a centerpiece in Darrell Jackson Jr ., an honorable mention All-ACC selection with NFL potential. Nebraska transfer James Williams will be an immediate contributor, while tackle Daniel Lyons should see an increased role. The offensive line needs greater stability after a turbulent 2024, and will turn to veteran transfers such as Luke Petitbon (Wake Forest), Adrian Medley (UCF) and Micah Pettus (Ole Miss).
Roster management: Florida State has pillaged the transfer portal in both good times and bad, and will need its newcomers to engineer a turnaround after a 2-10 disaster. Castellanos could provide the lift Uiagalelei didn't, and will be throwing to transfer wide receivers Duce Robinson (USC) and Squirrel White (Tennessee). FSU added several impact transfers on defense, including Williams and cornerback Jeremiah Wilson (Houston). The team also lost several notable defensive linemen and others to the portal. High school recruiting has lagged under coach Mike Norvell, as FSU's 2025 class finished just outside the top 25. The 2026 class ranks 25th.
Star power: Among returning players, Jackson jumps out as an All-ACC candidate along with 2024 leading tackler Shyheim Brown and a few others. But the real potential comes with FSU's transfer haul, namely players such as Williams, Wilson, Robinson, Petitbon and White. The Seminoles will need to hit big on several newcomers after having only three nonspecialists receive All-ACC recognition in 2024.
Coaching staff: Norvell went from ACC Coach of the Year in 2023 to a historic nosedive last fall. He reshaped his staff with Malzahn and defensive coordinator Tony White, who left Nebraska for a risk-reward opportunity in Tallahassee. FSU also gets new coaches for both lines, as Terrance Knighton (defensive line) came with White from Nebraska and Herb Hand (offensive line) joined Malzahn from UCF.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Josh Hoover is back for his second full season as TCU's starter after taking a significant step last fall, finishing with a team-record 3,949 yards and 27 touchdowns on 66.5% completions. Despite interest from other programs, Hoover is set to lead the Frogs again.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: On track. Hoover will be a senior in 2026 and could finish his TCU career as a four-year starter. TCU will do all it can to retain him, after Tennessee made a push when Nico Iamaleava transferred out.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The defensive front projects well with the Deal brothers, Devean and Markis , returning after combining for 15 tackles for loss in 2024. Markis Deal has three years of eligibility left, as does Zachary Chapman , who recorded three sacks last fall. Washington State transfer Ansel Din-Mbuh could solidify the interior for multiple seasons. TCU's offensive line has a few more questions, especially after James Brockermeyer transferred, but gets veteran Coltin Deery for another year. Cade Bennett , an All-Mountain West selection at San Diego State who missed all of 2024 with injury, is back.
Roster management: TCU took a few hits in the portal, including Brockermeyer and backup quarterback Hauss Hejny , but kept Hoover and its core together to set up a potentially big season in 2025. The Frogs made portal gains in the secondary with Elijah Jackson (Washington) and Kylin Jackson (LSU), as well as at wide receiver with Jordan Dwyer (Idaho) and Joseph Manjack IV (Houston).
Star power: Hoover deserves more regional and national buzz after nearly reaching the 4,000-yard passing mark in 2024. He's among a talented returning group of returning starters in the Big 12. Two-time captain Bud Clark earned second-team All-Big 12 honors in 2024 and could be a national awards candidate this fall. Deal had 5.5 sacks in his first season with TCU and should be on the All-Big 12 radar, in addition to linebacker Namdi Obiazor . Transfers Dwyer, Elijah Jackson and Din-Mbuh are worth watching.
Coaching staff: A solid finish to 2024 helped the program get back on track for Sonny Dykes, who will enter his fifth season as TCU's coach. Dykes has stability at coordinator with playcallers Andy Avalos (defense) and Kendal Briles (offense) both back. There are quite a few new position coaches for 2025, including veterans Brian Norwood (safeties) and Randy Clements (offensive line).
Mel Kiper Jr. breaks down his top prospects to watch for the 2026 NFL draft, including Penn State quarterback Drew Allar,
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: No.Payton Thorne 's two-year run as Auburn's starter came to end, as he had improved numbers last fall with 2,713 passing yards and 21 touchdowns on 62.8% completions.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Quite likely. Auburn hopes a second opportunity to start will click for Jackson Arnold , whose highly anticipated debut at Oklahoma never really got on track. Arnold, the nation's No. 3 recruit in 2023, could solidify Auburn at the position through at least 2026. The team also has some insurance with Stanford transfer Ashton Daniels , a senior this fall.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Auburn allowed 27 sacks last season and wants to shore up its protection for Arnold with players such as transfers Xavier Chaplin (Virginia Tech) and Mason Murphy (USC). The tackle depth looks strong with senior Izavion Miller also back. Auburn returns a solid interior group with guards Dillon Wade and Jeremiah Wright , and center Connor Lew . Keldric Faulk , the team's sacks leader in 2024 with seven, returns to lead a defensive line group that looks solid inside with senior Quientrail Jamison-Travis and sophomore Malik Blocton .
Roster management: Auburn gained more than it lost in the portal, as most of the team's departures were reserves at positions like defensive back and quarterback. Offensive lineman Percy Lewis was a starter, but the Tigers added Chaplin and Murphy. Arnold is obviously the biggest pickup, as Auburn could be the second-chance opportunity he needs. The team got him some help with wide receivers Eric Singleton Jr . (Georgia Tech) and Horatio Fields (Wake Forest). The defense added to its depth, too, with All-MAC cornerback Raion Strader (Miami) and others. Freeze is showing his recruiting clout with consecutive top-10 classes and a 2026 group that ranks in the top 25.
Star power: Auburn doesn't return any All-SEC players but could have several in 2025, especially with a loaded wide receiver group, as Singleton and Fields join talented sophomores Cam Coleman and Malcolm Simmons . Chaplin earned honorable mention All-ACC honors at Virginia Tech, and Strader was among the MAC's top defensive backs. Faulk should be one of the SEC's top pass rushers this fall, and other returning linemen such as Wright and Wade could gain all-league recognition.
Coaching staff: Freeze understands the SEC better than most and recognizes that a winning record is needed , at minimum, in Year 3 with an upgraded roster. Auburn retained offensive and defensive coordinators Derrick Nix and DJ Durkin but has a new special teams chief in Chad Lunsford, the former Georgia Southern coach.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Dylan Raiola returns for his second season as Nebraska's starter after passing for 2,819 yards with 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions as a true freshman. Raiola was the No. 11 overall recruit in the 2024 class.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Strong. Raiola has to play two more college seasons, so the only way Nebraska doesn't get him back for a third season, barring a catastrophic injury, is if he transfers after the 2025 season. He'll be once again working with coordinator Dana Holgorsen, appointed to the role in November.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Nebraska certainly has options at offensive line, a good thing at a position group where injuries are common. Justin Evans is a building block for the group and, along with Gunnar Gottula and others, can play through 2026. Nebraska also picked up veteran transfers Rocco Spindler (Notre Dame) and Elijah Pritchett (Alabama). The defensive front has some immediate question marks as Riley Van Poppel , Elijah Jeudy and others move into bigger roles.
Roster management: The Huskers addressed several needs in the portal, namely at wide receiver with Kentucky's Dane Key and Cal's Nyziah Hunter , but also along both lines with Spindler, Pritchett, edge rusher Dasan McCullough (Oklahoma) and Williams Nwaneri , a top recruit from the state who returns after redshirting for Missouri. Nebraska also lost some contributors in the portal. Coach Matt Rhule has signed back-to-back top-25 recruiting classes.
Star power: Raiola is certainly capable of All-Big Ten play and possibly more in his second season. Key has all-conference potential after a strong career at Kentucky. Returning defensive backs are also on the radar, including safety DeShon Singleton and cornerback Ceyair Wright . Nebraska also is hoping to hit on other transfers, including McCullough, Hunter and others.
Coaching staff: Rhule helped end Nebraska's historic bowl drought in 2024. The next phase will be truly contending in the Big Ten and possibly for a CFP berth. Rhule has Holgorsen in place to return as OC, but after losing talented defensive coordinator Tony White to Florida State, Nebraska promoted John Butler to the playcalling role. The Huskers have vast experience on their defensive staff, as longtime Rhule DC Phil Snow moves into a more involved role as associate head coach.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: No. Shedeur Sanders produced a record-setting two-year run at Colorado, had his number retired and then became a fifth-round NFL draft pick to the Cleveland Browns.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Fairly likely. Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter , who led the Flames to an undefeated regular season and a Fiesta Bowl appearance in 2023, enters his final year of eligibility. But Colorado could at some point turn to decorated incoming freshman Julian "Ju Ju" Lewis, pegged as the team's quarterback of the future.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The defensive line was a bright spot for much of last season, especially a pass rush that produced 37 sacks and 52 quarterback hurries. Colorado must replace BJ Green and others but returns ends Arden Walker and Samuel Okunlola , who combined for 7.5 sacks and 13 hurries. Veteran tackle Amari McNeill is also back, and Colorado added transfers such as Jehiem Oatis (Alabama). Colorado's offensive line remains an area to watch and once again will be transfer-heavy with Xavier Hill (Memphis), Zarian McGill ( Louisiana Tech ), Zy Crisler (Illinois) and others. The group returns an anchor in talented sophomore tackle Jordan Seaton , as well as guard Tyler Brown .
Roster management: Colorado not surprisingly was active in the portal, adding Salter as a potential one-year answer at quarterback, and addressing both lines of scrimmage, the secondary and linebacker. The team also sustained some potentially significant portal losses at offensive line, cornerback and running back. Colorado signed ESPN's No. 34 class for 2025.
Star power: The Buffs lost more than most teams with Shedeur Sanders, Heisman Trophy winnerTravis Hunter and others departing. Who's left? Seaton is back, Walker and Okunlola are both All-Big 12 candidates on the line, and Salter was Conference USA's MVP and a Maxwell Award finalist in 2023. Hill earned first-team All-AAC honors last fall after being a second-team selection in 2023. Alejandro Mata is back as one of the nation's more experienced kickers.
Coaching staff: Deion Sanders is back for Year 3, although the season represents Phase 2 of his tenure with his sons, Hunter and other notables leaving Boulder. He retained both of his coordinators, Pat Shurmur and on-the-rise DC Robert Livingston, and added another Pro Football Hall of Famer to the staff in running backs coach Marshall Faulk.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: No. Maalik Murphy set records in his only season as Duke's starter, but the team moved on from him and pursued Tulane's Darian Mensah , one of the top quarterbacks in the winter portal.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Extremely likely. Duke made a major investment in Mensah, in part because he has three years of eligibility left. Mensah completed nearly 66% of his passes for 2,723 yards and 22 touchdowns last season, and his mobility makes him a good fit for Jonathan Brewer's offense.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Duke's defensive front projects as a strength, as top pass rusher Wesley Williams (7.5 sacks, nine quarterback hurries) is back alongside fellow end Vincent Anthony Jr . and tackle Aaron Hall . The Blue Devils also added Dartmouth transfer Josiah Green for the interior. The offensive line that will protect Mensah returns four starters, including second-team All-ACC safety Brian Parker II and veteran guard Justin Pickett . Duke had a few injuries during spring ball but should have a talented and deep group in the fall.
Roster management: Duke seems to be in a very good place under coach Manny Diaz. The Mensah investment and ability to retain standout players such as All-ACC defensive backs Chandler Rivers and Terry Moore sends a message that Duke is here to compete. Duke gained more than it lost in the portal, addressing a need at wide receiver and picking up key players for the defensive back seven, including Caleb Weaver , a first-team All-Conference USA selection for Sam Houston . Diaz's defensive recruiting clout showed up in a 2025 class ranked 35th nationally.
Star power: Mensah generated most of the offseason buzz and certainly could become an all-league player with his new team. But Duke has other standouts, namely Rivers, a national awards candidate, along with Moore, Parker, Hall, linebacker Tre Freeman and others. The Blue Devils' defense should once again be one of the ACC's best, and if the offense clicks with Mensah, look out. Running back Jaquez Moore is worth monitoring as he returns from injury.
Coaching staff: Duke's momentum can be seen with Diaz and a staff that returns almost entirely intact from a 9-4 team. Coordinators Brewer and Jonathan Patke are settled into their roles, and Diaz has retained several promising young position coaches excited about the program's direction.
Previous future power ranking: 17
Returning quarterback: Kind of. Will Rogers started most of the 2024 season for Washington, but coach Jedd Fisch wisely pivoted to freshman Demond Williams Jr . down the stretch. After an impressive finish, Williams will enter the fall as Washington's clear QB1.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Williams has three years of eligibility left and has positioned himself to lead the Huskies' offense through 2026, if not longer.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: After a transition year in 2024, Washington needs both groups to stabilize a bit. The offensive line returns some experience with tackle Drew Azzopardi , center Landen Hatchett and others, and brings back Geirean Hatchett after a year at Oklahoma. Washington will have a new-look defensive front under coordinator Ryan Walters, which includes transfers Anterio Thompson ( Western Michigan ) and Simote Pepa (Utah).
Roster management: A second wave of transfers followed coach Jedd Fisch from Arizona to Washington, including veteran defenders in cornerback Tacario Davis and linebacker Jacob Manu . Defense was definitely Washington's portal focus this year with safety Alex McLaughlin ( Northern Arizona ) and others. Fisch signed ESPN's No. 17 recruiting class for 2025 and the 2026 class ranks 24th.
Star power: Williams has high-level potential and will be joined by All-Big Ten candidates in running back Jonah Coleman and wide receiver Denzel Boston . Washington doesn't return any bona fide stars on defense, but several of the transfers should be worth watching, including Davis and Manu.
Coaching staff: Fisch can truly settle in after a chaotic first season and has mostly good stability on the offensive staff, where Jimmie Dougherty slides in at offensive coordinator following Brennan Carroll's departure. The immediate intrigue will be on defense as Walters, after a brief and rocky tenure as Purdue's coach, takes over as the playcaller.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Sawyer Robertson shined in his first full season as Baylor's starter, passing for 3,071 yards with 28 touchdowns and eight interceptions, and added 230 rushing yards and four rushing scores
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Highly unlikely. Robertson is the focal point for Baylor's offense in his final college season, and for good reason after his strong finish to 2024. If Robertson goes down with injury, Baylor could end up with a multiyear quarterback in Walker White , the Auburn transfer.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Offensive line should be a strength for the Bears with four returning starters, including guard Omar Aigbedion , who earned honorable mention All-Big 12 recognition. Senior Sidney Fugar , a transfer from South Carolina after the 2023 season, moved from left guard to left tackle last fall and brings experience and versatility. The defensive line brings back some experience in Jackie Marshall , an honorable mention All-Big 12 performer, and fellow senior Cooper Lanz , who has played both end and tackle. Baylor added some bulk inside with Texas A&M transfer Samu Taumanupepe , who weighs 380 pounds.
Roster management: After a bounce-back season in 2024, Baylor had a solid offseason, retaining its top offensive weapons, including Robertson, All-Big 12 wide receiver Josh Cameron and Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year Bryson Washington at running back. The Bears made some smart transfer additions with wide receiver Kobe Prentice (Alabama), defensive back Devin Turner (Northwestern), linebacker Travion Barnes (Florida International) and others. High school recruiting is on a steadier path after a dip, and Baylor's 2026 class projects well.
Star power: Baylor won't be able to hide entering the 2025 season, especially on offense with Robertson, Cameron, Washington and tight end Michael Trigg all back in the fold. Washington should be a star there through 2026, too. Marshall is among the defensive headliners, along with linebacker Keaton Thomas and safety Devyn Bobby . Several incoming transfers could contend for all-league honors.
Coaching staff: Coach Dave Aranda made it through a hot seat season with the program seemingly on much stronger footing. He will once again handle defensive playcalling, while offensive coordinator Jake Spavital is back for a second season. Aranda made some adjustments to the defensive staff and hired cornerbacks coach Paul Gonzales, who spent the past 13 seasons with rival TCU.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Haynes King is back for his third season as the Yellow Jackets' starter, after making dramatic improvements in his accuracy and lowering his interceptions total last fall. King completed 72.9% of his passes for 2,114 yards and had only two interceptions on 269 attempts.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very slim. Georgia Tech is building its offense around King, who enters his sixth and final season. The team has a lot of confidence in backup Aaron Philo , a redshirt freshman, but likely would make a change only if a major injury occurs.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Brent Key is a former Georgia Tech offensive lineman who coached the O-line before taking over the program, which he has built largely around, you guessed it, the offensive front. The Yellow Jackets return one of the nation's best guard tandems in Keylan Rutledge , a 2024 first-team All-ACC selection, and fellow senior Joe Fusile . Ethan Mackenny started eight games at left tackle as a true freshman and is a multiyear contributor for Key. The defensive line will initially be more transfer heavy with Brayden Manley ( Mercer ) and former Yellow Jacket Akelo Stone (Ole Miss), although returning senior tackle Jordan van den Berg should lead the group.
Roster management: Georgia Tech lost standout receiver Eric Singleton Jr ., outside linebacker Romello Height and several contributors to the portal, but it retained King, running back Justice Haynes , wide receiver Malik Rutherford and others from a team that showed it can compete with anyone. The team also supplemented both lines through the portal and filled Singleton's spot with Florida Atlantic's Eric Rivers , a first-team All-Conference USA selection. Key's recruiting prowess showed with the No. 19 class for 2025, a jump from No. 34 in 2024.
Star power: Georgia Tech returns arguably the ACC's best offensive backfield tandem in King and Haynes, and has several linemen -- Rutledge, van den Berg -- who received all-league recognition last fall. Rutherford and linebacker Kyle Efford also earned All-ACC recognition. Rivers is an impact player at wide receiver, and several of the transfer linemen, including Manley and Stone, have all-league potential.
Coaching staff: Key has shown he can win the big games at his alma mater. Now he needs to win more of them, especially with increased access to the CFP. Georgia Tech brings back Buster Faulkner, one of the nation's more creative offensive playcallers. The team will have a new defensive coordinator in Blake Gideon, who is in the role for the first time.
Previous future power ranking: 14
Returning quarterback: No. After two very difficult seasons at quarterback, impacted by Cam Rising 's injuries, Utah is moving forward with Devon Dampier , a dynamic dual threat who earned first-team All-Mountain West honors at New Mexico in 2024.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Utah brought in Dampier and offensive coordinator Jason Beck as a package deal, with the goal of Dampier leading Utah's offense through the 2026 season. He made 13 starts at New Mexico and led the Mountain West in total offense with 3,934 yards.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The defensive line is traditionally a strength but has some holes to fill afterJunior Tafuna moved on to the NFL, and Keanu Tanuvasa transferred to rival BYU. Logan Fano is back at defensive end after a decent 2024 season. Tackles Aliki Vimahi and Dallas Vakalahi both have started games and Vakalahi has only sophomore eligibility. Utah is hoping several transfers can fill out the depth. Utah's offensive line returns all five starters and could be among the nation's best. The team retained tackles Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu , and has a veteran interior group.
Roster management: Utah had a significant portal exodus with 30 scholarship players transferring out, but the team retained Spencer Fano, a first-team All-Big-12 selection, and Lomu, as both could have left for other Power 4 programs. Although the Utes offense has turned over significantly, it needed to after the last two seasons. Dampier is a big get at quarterback, along with running backs Wayshawn Parker (Washington State) and NaQuari Rogers (New Mexico), and wide receiver Ryan Davis (New Mexico) and several others. Utah signed ESPN's No. 33 recruiting class for 2025, a nice job from 2024 (No. 50).
Star power: Dampier led the Mountain West in yards per carry last fall (7.52), in addition to finishing second in passing. He's a potential plug-and-play superstar. Utah's other offensive transfers at running back and wide receiver are also worth watching, but the real star power potential is at the line of scrimmage. Spencer Fano is an established star, and others like Lomu and Logan Fano could contend for All-Big-12 honors. Linebacker Lander Barton , Utah's leading tackler in 2024, has started games in each of the past three seasons, and nickel Smith Snowden has shown playmaking ability.
Coaching staff: Kyle Whittingham said he wouldn't coach past 65 but reached the milestone in November. A stronger 2025 season could accelerate the coaching transition to longtime defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley. Utah needed a reset on offense and gets it with Beck, who has Power 4 coordinator experience from Syracuse and also worked at Virginia and BYU.
29. Texas Tech Red RaidersPrevious future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Behren Morton was Texas Tech's primary starter throughout the 2024 season, after earning 12 combined starts in 2022 and 2023, when he earned honorable mention All-Big-12 honors. He enters his final season ranked in Texas Tech's top 10 in several major categories, including touchdown passes (49) and passing yards (6,209).
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Slim, pending health. Morton will be Texas Tech's QB1 in 2025 before moving on. But he's coming off of surgery to his throwing shoulder, which caused him to miss time in 2023. If there are further problems, Texas Tech will turn to talented backup Will Hammond , just a redshirt freshman.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Texas Tech's pedal-down offseason drew national interest, but the biggest gains were made along the lines, especially the defensive front with transfers Lee Hunter (UCF), David Bailey (Stanford), Romello Height (Georgia Tech) and others. The D-line will be transfer-reliant but also returns Terrell Tilmon , who was second on the team with 3.5 sacks last fall. Texas Tech's interior offensive line returns experienced players like guard Davion Carter . The group likely will turn to transfers Howard Sampson (North Carolina) and Hunter Zambrano ( Illinois State ).
Roster management: Texas Tech finished No. 2 in our national offseason rankings list after super booster Cody Campbell fueled a portal push that produced one of the most talented rosters in team history. The Red Raiders made upgrades to both lines and brought back wide receiver Micah Hudson after a brief detour to Texas A&M. Texas Tech had some portal losses, too, but came out far ahead. The team's 2025 recruiting class placed just outside ESPN's top 50.
Star power: Morton has been efficient and effective when healthy and should be in contention for All-Big-12 honors, at the very least. Several incoming defensive transfers arrive with accolades -- including Hunter, Bailey and tight end Terrance Carter (Louisiana) -- while others could rise into at least all-league contention. Hudson had only eight receptions last year but is a former Top 25 national recruit.
Coaching staff: After three solid seasons, coach Joey McGuire has what he needs to take the next step. In addition to the roster gains, Texas Tech added two coveted coordinators in Mack Leftwich (offense) and Shiel Wood (defense). The team also retained general manager James Blanchard after Notre Dame made a push.
28. Texas A&M AggiesPrevious future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Marcel Reed is back for his second season as Texas A&M's top QB after passing for 1,864 yards and 15 touchdowns last season, while adding 543 rushing yards and seven scores. He will look for more efficiency and explosiveness in the throw game.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Reed is only a redshirt sophomore and projects as a quarterback who will need several college seasons for development. Texas A&M added UAB transfer Jacob Zeno , a seventh-year player who started his career at Baylor and has 17 career starts. Redshirt freshman Miles O'Neill rounds out the depth.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: If Texas A&M takes a step under second-year coach Mike Elko, the offensive line likely will lead the charge. The Aggies return all five starters, including third-team All-SEC left tackle Trey Zuhn III and senior guard Ar'maj Reed-Adams , who has 28 career starts between A&M and Kansas. The group's depth also stands out as Mark Nabou Jr ., who entered 2024 as the starting center but sustained a season-ending injury in the opener, is also back. Texas A&M had three defensive linemen selected among the top 62 picks of the NFL draft, and features a somewhat new-look group with transfers TJ Searcy (Florida), Dayon Hayes (Colorado) and Tyler Onyedim (Iowa State) joining holdovers like end Cashius Howell and tackle Albert Regis .
Roster management: The Aggies successfully held onto key players and, in the case of the offensive line, an entire position group from 2024. Reed will share a backfield with both Le'Veon Moss and Rueben Owens , who returns after missing all of last season with a foot injury. Texas A&M also retained leading tackler Taurean York , Howell, cornerback Will Lee III and others from a defense that must improve. The team had an interesting offseason at wide receiver, as Kyron Hudson didn't pan out and Noah Thomas transferred, but Texas A&M added NC State standout KC Concepcion and others. The Aggies also made gains at the edge and cornerback spot, adding Washington's Jordan Shaw . Elko signed ESPN's No. 9 recruiting class for 2025, highlighted by several standout linemen, and the 2026 class ranks No. 6.
Star power: Texas A&M returns three All-SEC players from 2024 in Moss (second team), Lee (second team) and Zuhn (third team). They all could work their way into national consideration this fall. Moss had 10 rushing touchdowns before a knee injury, but has responded well. The key will be: Who else steps up? Concepcion was the ACC Rookie of the Year in 2023 and gives Reed an explosive threat on the perimeter. York led Texas A&M in both tackles and tackles for loss last season, and should be among the league's top linebackers. Safety Marcus Ratcliffe showed his playmaking ability with three interceptions last fall. Texas A&M also should get more linemen into All-SEC contention, whether they're holdovers on offense or transfers on defense.
Coaching staff: Despite a poor finish to 2024, Elko did some good things in Year 1 and not surprisingly will run it back with coordinators Jay Bateman (defense) and Collin Klein (offense), and most of his position coaches. The team added Lyle Hemphill, a veteran defensive assistant who served as James Madison's coordinator in 2024, as associate head coach for defense.
Previous future power ranking: 16
Returning quarterback: No. Oklahoma's offense needed a reset after 2024, when Jackson Arnold and Michael Hawkins Jr . took the majority of snaps. Arnold is off to Auburn, and while Hawkins is back, Oklahoma landed the biggest quarterback transfer prize of the cycle in Washington State's John Mateer .
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Oklahoma will build around Mateer, a dual-threat dynamo who thrived under new Sooners offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle last fall at WSU. Hawkins is just a sophomore with some experience from last season (120 pass attempts).
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Oklahoma's defense wasn't the problem last season and the line projects to be among the nation's best this fall. The team returns an A-list pass rusher in R Mason Thomas , who had nine sacks, 11 quarterback hurries and two forced fumbles while earning second-team All-SEC honors. OU is loaded at defensive tackle with the return of Damonic Williams , Gracen Halton , Jayden Jackson and David Stone , the former top-10 recruit who briefly entered the portal this spring before returning. Florida State transfer Marvin Jones Jr . will take some of the attention away from Thomas. Despite a down year on the offensive line, OU resisted a heavy portal push and will run it back with senior center Troy Everett and several sophomores with starting experience ( Heath Ozaeta , Logan Howland ). The group needs better luck on the health front.
Roster management: If coach Brent Venables puts Oklahoma back in contention for conference titles and CFP appearances, many will point to the past offseason. Oklahoma had significant portal pickups like Mateer, Jones, Cal running back Jaydn Ott , Oklahoma State linebacker Kendal Daniels and a group of wide receivers that includes JaVonnie Gibson , an FCS All-America selection at Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Sooners also retained top defenders like Thomas, Halton, linebacker Kip Lewis and a promising young secondary that includes brothers Peyton Bowen and Eli Bowen . Venables still signed a top-20 recruiting class for 2025 despite last year's struggles, after bringing in the No. 8 class for 2024.
Star power: Mateer arrives in Norman with massive expectations, but he also has the skill set to electrify Oklahoma's offense and gain league and national recognition. If certain players around him stay healthy, like Ott and wide receiver Deion Burks , Oklahoma should have multiple candidates for the All-SEC teams. Thomas was a playmaking machine in 2024 and will be on the radar for national awards. Halton had five sacks, two forced fumbles and a safety from the tackle spot in 2024 and also belongs in this group. Daniels is a former Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year and led Oklahoma State in tackles for loss (11) and sacks (5.5) last fall.
Coaching staff: Venables enters a pivotal fourth year but has momentum from an offseason that not only included a nice transfer haul, but Arbuckle and others are joining the staff. Oklahoma hired Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy as general manager and Kevin Wilson, the former Indiana and Tulsa coach who served as OU's offensive coordinator under Bob Stoops, as an analyst.
Previous future power ranking: 11
Returning quarterback: Yes. Miller Moss started most of the 2024 season for USC but was benched down the stretch as Jayden Maiava got the final four starts.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Somewhat likely. Maiava enters his fourth year but has two years of eligibility left. He started throughout 2023 at UNLV and helped the Rebels reach the Mountain West championship game. Maiava seemingly would benefit from two full seasons with coach Lincoln Riley, but a breakout 2025 season could change things.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Riley has emphasized line play more in the last year, as USC added mass to hold up better in the Big Ten. The Trojans return an interesting non-senior core in Devan Thompkins , Braylan Shelby and Kameryn Fountain , and add Kentucky transfer Keeshawn Silver . USC's offensive line also brings back non-seniors with experience, like tackle Elijah Paige and guard Alani Noa , but will need transfers J'onre Reed (Syracuse) and DJ Wingfield (Purdue) to perform.
Roster management: Riley wants to become less transfer-reliant after too many boom-or-bust outcomes during his first three seasons. He beefed up USC's personnel department and the result is a 2026 recruiting class currently ranked No. 1 nationally. The incoming transfer class isn't as decorated but should help in areas like offensive and defensive line, secondary and running back.
Star power: There's not many no-doubt national stars entering the season, but USC could get there with wide receivers Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane , Paige on the offensive line and returning defenders like safety Kamari Ramsey and linebacker Eric Gentry . The transfers could certainly factor in here, including at running back, where Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders arrive.
Coaching staff: Riley needs a true breakthrough in Year 4, but USC finally has the infrastructure to build better and more stable rosters for the future. Coordinator D'Anton Lynn leads an impressive defensive staff that returns from 2024, and Riley's influence remains on the offensive side, as he bumped Luke Huard to coordinator after Josh Henson departed.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Jake Retzlaff is set to return after starting for BYU's 11-win team last fall, although his status could change depending on the civil lawsuit filed against him by a woman alleging he raped and strangled her in 2023.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Possible. Retzlaff has junior eligibility and could lead the Cougars offense through 2026. His legal situation might change things, though, and reserves McCae Hillstead and Treyson Bourguet both have FBS starting experience.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: BYU is in the unique position of losing offensive line experience but still retaining some with seniors Weylin Lapuaho , Bruce Mitchell and Isaiah Jatta . Lapuaho earned honorable mention All-Big-12 honors. The Cougars also added transfers Andrew Gentry (Michigan) and Kyle Sfarcioc (Southern Utah). BYU's defensive line has some turnover for 2025, although senior end Logan Lutui is back, and Utah transfer Keanu Tanuvasa is a big addition inside. The Cougars will need to build some depth at tackle for 2025 and 2026.
Roster management: The team lost a few key players to the portal, especially in the spring, but addressed the defensive line with additions like Tanuvasa, Tausili Akana (Texas) and Justin Kirkland (Oklahoma State). BYU also picked up the Bachmeier brothers, quarterback Bear and wide receiver Tiger , who should help with depth. High school recruiting has fluctuated a bit, but BYU still does well in its state and in Texas, and the 2026 class currently ranks No. 20.
Star power: BYU lost a lot to the draft and will need to replace standouts in the defensive back seven. Linebacker Jack Kelly returns after earning Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year honors in 2024. BYU brings back leading receiver Chase Roberts , and leading rusher LJ Martin is also back with two years of eligibility left. Lapuaho could emerge as one of the league's better offensive linemen, and kicker Will Ferrin was a first-team all-league selection in 2024.
Coaching staff: Kalani Sitake has good stability on the staff as he enters his 10th season overseeing the team at his alma mater. Primary coordinators Jay Hill (defense) and Aaron Roderick (offense) are both back, and the staff had minimal changes coming off of an 11-2 season.
Previous future power ranking: 21
Returning quarterback: No. Tyler Shough was an NFL second-round draft pick after a successful season under coach Jeff Brohm. Louisville once again went to the portal for his likely replacement in Miller Moss (USC).
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Highly unlikely. Moss, who had a record Holiday Bowl performance against Louisville in 2023 and opened the 2024 season as USC's starter, is entering his final year of eligibility. Louisville will go with him barring injury. Junior Brady Allen and redshirt freshman Deuce Adams are competing to back him up.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Louisville took some hits on the offensive line with the transfers of Monroe Mills (Virginia) and Austin Collins (Syracuse), but veterans Pete Nygra and Rasheed Miller are both back at center and tackle, respectively. The key will be whether transfers like Jordan Church (Florida Atlantic) and Mahamane Moussa (Purdue) can shore up spots. The defensive front loses top pass rusher Ashton Gillotte , but brings back tackles Jordan Guerad and Rene Konga , and has high hopes for end Micah Carter . Rutgers transfer Wesley Bailey started 25 games from 2022 to 2023 and should have a key role.
Roster management: Louisville's roster has been fairly fluid under Brohm, who once again took a transfer quarterback, as well as bolstered groups like wide receiver and defensive back. There were some key losses at offensive line, but the team retained star running back Isaac Brown and backup Duke Watson , and added some possible impact transfers on defense like outside linebacker Clev Lubin , who had 9.5 sacks and three forced fumbles for Coastal Carolina last season.
Star power: Brown earned second-team All-ACC honors in 2024 and will be one of the nation's top sophomores this fall. Wide receivers Chris Bell and Caullin Lacy , a first-team All-Sun Belt selection at South Alabama who played in only five games for Louisville last fall, are both all-league candidates. The key will be who steps up on defense after some key departures. Linebacker Stanquan Clark has been productive, and transfers like Bailey, Lubin and safety JoJo Evans (Florida International) are worth watching.
Coaching staff: Brohm is entrenched at his alma mater and his hometown, boasting a 19-8 record (12-4 in ACC play). He returns primary coordinators Brian Brohm (offense) and Mark Hagen and Ron English (defense), and elevated former Louisville great and Super Bowl MVP Deion Branch to wide receivers coach from a support role. Brohm also scored a major in-state coup, swiping ace recruiter Vince Marrow from rival Kentucky to become Louisville's new general manager.
Previous future power ranking: 18
Returning quarterback: No. Cade McNamara moved on after two disappointing seasons, and Brendan Sullivan transferred to Tulane after starting three games last fall.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very slim. Iowa brought in South Dakota State transfer Mark Gronowski to elevate the offense, and Gronowski picked Iowa to boost his NFL profile in his final college season.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: After several turbulent seasons, Iowa's offensive line stabilized in 2024 and once again looks like one of the team's signature position groups. Veterans Logan Jones , Gennings Dunker and Beau Stephens are all back for 2025, and the group has juniors and sophomores ready to step up, while also adding Division II standout Bryce George . Seniors Aaron Graves and Ethan Hurkett lead a defensive line that looks solid in some spots and has a few questions as well.
Roster management: Iowa will never be a volume portal team with Kirk Ferentz as coach, but it has become more aggressive in taking transfer quarterbacks like Gronowski and Hank Brown (Auburn). Iowa also added several defensive linemen and wide receiver Sam Phillips from Chattanooga. The Hawkeyes don't pop in high school recruiting rankings but continue to find good developmental prospects within the state and region.
Star power: Gronowski's championship experience and ability gives him a chance to become one of the Big Ten's better quarterbacks this fall. Iowa brings back All-Big Ten offensive linemen in Jones and Dunker, and Graves, and Hurkett, and other defenders like safety Xavier Nwankpa should contend for league honors.
Coaching staff: Kirk Ferentz turns 70 in August but continues pushing forward as the nation's longest-tenured coach. After the offensive staff shakeup in 2023, the team returned coordinator Tim Lester and most of the staff. Veteran assistants like Phil Parker, LeVar Woods and Seth Wallace are all back, too.
Previous future power ranking: 20
Returning quarterback: No. Brady Cook 's run of 39 starts for Missouri is over, as he capped his career with 10,222 yards of total offense. Cook had 2,535 passing yards last fall.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: It depends on preseason camp. Beau Pribula transferred from Penn State before the team's CFP run and landed at Missouri, where he will attempt to start in his final college season after backing up Drew Allar . If Sam Horn beats out Pribula for the top job, he could start through the 2026 season as he has junior eligibility.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The defensive front brings back a nice foundation in seniors end Zion Young and interior players Chris McClellan and Sterling Webb . Missouri is doubling down on its existing defensive tackle depth, although the team added Georgia transfer Damon Wilson II , who had two sacks last fall, to the edge. The team went heavier into the portal for offensive linemen, including seventh-year tackle Keagen Trost (Wake Forest), West Virginia tackle Johnny Williams IV and others. Missouri brings back a nice interior foundation with junior guard Cayden Green and senior center Connor Tollison .
Roster management: Missouri lost two top 40 NFL draft picks from the offense (tackleArmand Membou , wide receiverLuther Burden III ) and Cook, as well as productive defenders like end Johnny Walker Jr . But most of the team's portal departures were younger players like Williams Nwaneri , a former Top 25 national recruit. Missouri added Pribula and some help around him with wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr . (Mississippi State) and running back Ahmad Hardy (Louisiana-Monroe). Safety Jalen Catalon joins his fourth college team after a good run at UNLV, and the front seven should benefit from Wilson, linebacker Josiah Trotter (West Virginia) and others. Missouri signed Top 25 recruiting classes in 2024 and 2025.
Star power: A new group of standouts must emerge after the NFL departures, but Missouri has a nice veteran core, especially on defense with safety Daylan Carnell , linebacker Triston Newson and linemen like Tollison, Young and Green, ESPN's No. 55 recruit in the 2023 class. Transfers like Coleman and Hardy, a first-team All-Sun Belt selection, should help right away, and Catalon is a former All-America selection at Arkansas who earned first-team All-Mountain West honors last fall at UNLV.
Coaching staff: After 21 wins the past two seasons, coach Eliah Drinkwitz has Missouri on a promising path. He retained coordinators Kirby Moore (offense) and Corey Batoon (defense) from last year, and had minimal changes on the staff as the team tried to reload.
Previous future power ranking: 19
Returning quarterback: Yes. Avery Johnson is back for his second year as the starter, after setting a team record with 25 touchdown passes in 2024 and helping the offense set records for yards per play (6.57) and yards per rush (6.1). Johnson was on Tennessee's radar as a possible Nico Iamaleava replacement, but he remained at K-State.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Quite likely. Johnson is a junior and can headline the Kansas State offense again in 2026. He has room to grow as a passer, especially from an efficiency standpoint, and will be working this fall with coordinator Matt Wells, who coached the quarterbacks last fall.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Protecting Johnson is paramount, and Kansas State has a good foundation on the interior with center Sam Hecht , a second-team All-Big-12 selection in 2024, and guard Taylor Poitier . The team also added several Power 4 transfers, including tackle George Fitzpatrick from Ohio State. K-State's defensive line lacks a superstar like Brendan Mott , but depth should be a strength with sophomore Chiddi Obiazor , senior Cody Stufflebean and several big and seasoned tackles coming back.
Roster management: Kansas State kept Johnson, who was pursued by other programs despite a mixed results season in 2024. The team lost a chunk of players to the portal in December and several more in the spring, but also made some gains at all three levels on defense, including South Alabama cornerback Amarion Fortenberry , as well as offensive line, wide receiver and elsewhere. Coach Chris Klieman pulled in a strong 2025 recruiting class featuring ESPN 300 tight end Linkon Cure .
Star power: Johnson can be a Big 12 and national awards candidate, especially if he displays better accuracy as a passer. Tight end Garrett Oakley is back for at least another season after earning second-team All-Big-12 honors in 2024. Junior Austin Romaine also was a second-team all-league selection after leading Kansas State in tackles, and linemen like Hecht and Obiazor should be in contention for honors.
Coaching staff: Klieman is a model of consistency and will enter his seventh year at K-State, having won eight games or more in all but one. He lost longtime assistant Conor Riley to the NFL but replaced him with Wells, a former Big 12 head coach who worked with Johnson. Riley had coached the offensive line, but Brian Lepak slid over from tight ends to work with the group.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: No.Kurtis Rourke earned second-team All-Big Ten honors in his lone season with IU, and helped the Hoosiers to a team-record 11 wins and a CFP appearance. He was a seventh-round NFL draft pick by the San Francisco 49ers .
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: It depends on 2025. Cal transfer Fernando Mendoza arrives at Indiana with two years of eligibility left and 19 career starts. But if he builds on his 2024 numbers with an even better team, he could position himself well even amid a more crowded 2026 NFL draft class for quarterbacks. Mendoza, whose younger brother also plays QB for IU, also could look to play through 2026.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Indiana's offensive line got exposed in the biggest games last season, and will have a mostly different look with a mix of returnees ( Carter Smith , Bray Lynch , Drew Evans ) and notable transfers ( Pat Coogan , Kahlil Benson , Zen Michalski ). The defensive front returns All-Big Ten end Mikail Kamara but also will rely on veteran transfers like Hosea Wheeler (Western Kentucky).
Roster management: The Hoosiers thrived in the portal for the second straight season but this time didn't have the benefit of raiding their new coach's former team. Indiana took some big swings and landed Mendoza, Coogan, running back Roman Hemby , defensive backs Devan Boykin and Louis Moore , and others from Power 4 programs. Indiana's high school recruiting is less decorated, but the program has been very competitive with transfers.
Star power: Indiana lost only two NFL draft picks from a playoff team but returns plenty of established standouts, especially on defense. The Hoosiers regain All-Big Ten players in Kamara, linebacker Aiden Fisher and cornerback D'Angelo Ponds. Wide receiver Elijah Sarratt , a third-team All-Big Ten selection in 2024, is also back. Mendoza and several transfers should be in the mix for awards.
Coaching staff: Reigning Big Ten Coach of the Year Curt Cignetti is back after a transformative first season in Bloomington. He retained his top coordinators Bryant Haines (defense) and Mike Shanahan, strength coach Derek Owings and others, and lost only one on-field assistant. If Indiana continues to invest, it should remain a top-half Big Ten program.
19. Iowa State CyclonesPrevious future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Rocco Becht is back for his third season as Iowa State's starter, after earning honorable mention All-Big 12 honors in 2024. He finished in the top 20 nationally for both passing yards (3,505) and passing touchdowns (25).
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Quite likely. Becht redshirted in 2022 and will be eligible for a final season in 2026. Although he could always move on, he doesn't project as a surefire NFL prospect and likely will be back with coach Matt Campbell and the Cyclones.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The offensive line has experience and versatility coming back, as tackles James Neal and Tyler Miller have started games, as well as several interior players. Some have non-senior eligibility, including Brendan Black and Trevor Buhr , and ISU added Big Ten transfers in Austin Barrett (Indiana) and Derek Jensen (Wisconsin). ISU's defensive line has more immediate questions outside of senior tackle Domonique Orange . Junior Ikenna Ezeogu and sophomore Zaimir Hawk will be in bigger roles, and ISU added to its edge position with transfers Vontroy Malone (Tulsa) and Tamatoa McDonough (Yale).
Roster management: Iowa State lost 10 transfers in the winter period and several more in the spring, including linebacker Jack Sadowsky V , who had starting experience. But the team kept most of its key contributors and made some important portal additions, including at wide receiver with Chase Sowell (East Carolina) and Xavier Townsend (UCF), defensive end and the secondary with cornerback Tre Bell (Lindenwood) and others. Iowa State is an unapologetically developmental program and doesn't aim for much sizzle in high school recruiting.
Star power: Becht certainly should be in the mix for All-Big 12 honors and potentially national ones. Although he loses his top receivers to the NFL, he regains talented tight ends Gabe Burkle and Benjamin Brahmer . Orange and kicker Kyle Konrardy earned honorable mention all-league honors in 2024, and several of the returning offensive linemen have all-league potential.
Coaching staff: Campbell is back for his 10th season in Ames and has good continuity on his staff with longtime defensive coordinator Jon Heacock and Taylor Mouser, who enters his second season as OC. Running backs coach Jake Landry is the only significant addition to the on-field staff.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. LaNorris Sellers is back after a breakout season when he passed for 2,534 yards and 18 touchdowns and rushed for 674 yards and seven scores. He earned third-team All-SEC honors.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Everything hinges on Sellers' development. Sellers is just a redshirt sophomore and has the size and skills to play in the NFL . But he's not there yet and must significantly cut down on turnovers to solidify himself as a top prospect. If Sellers departs in 2026, South Carolina could turn to Ohio State transfer Air Noland , the No. 52 overall recruit in the 2024 class.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: South Carolina lost a lot on the defensive front with Kyle Kennard , the Nagurski Trophy winner and SEC Defensive Player of the Year, moving on along with Tonka Hemingway and TJ Sanders . The group has a multiyear centerpiece in Dylan Stewart , who had 6.5 sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles as a freshman. South Carolina has some returnees and transfer options at tackle but will need multiple players to take on bigger roles, including talented senior Nick Barrett and possibly junior college transfer Zavion Hardy . The Gamecocks also must build around Stewart and Bryan Thomas Jr . at end. The offensive line returns promising non-seniors at tackle in Josiah Thompson and Cason Henry . South Carolina's interior line will look different, as transfers like Boaz Stanley (Troy) and Nick Sharpe (Wake Forest) get a look alongside returnee Trovon Baugh .
Roster management: The Gamecocks knew they would be losing a lot to the NFL from a top-20 team. Their goal was keeping their top non-seniors, which they did -- Sellers, Stewart, cornerbacks Jalon Kilgore and Judge Collier , and young receivers Mazeo Bennett Jr . and Nyck Harbor are all back. South Carolina lost some scholarship players to the portal but not many key contributors. The team also added much-needed transfers at defensive tackle, interior offensive line and added a potential starter in the secondary in NC State cornerback Brandon Cisse . Utah State running back Rahsul Faison , an All-Mountain West selection, could be a big addition, but he's still waiting on an NCAA waiver. South Carolina signed top-20 classes in each of the past two years, which should help offset any upcoming losses.
Star power: South Carolina has a national awards candidate on each side of the ball in Sellers and Stewart. The question is: Who joins them? Kilgore had a team-high five interceptions last season and will be one to watch on defense, along with Collier, DQ Smith and Thomas. South Carolina will look for more from its returning receivers, namely Bennett and Harbor, and Faison should be on the All-SEC radar, if cleared.
Coaching staff: Coach Shane Beamer rebounded from a tough 2023 season to win nine games and nearly reach the CFP last season. He now must show he can reload and sustain after so many NFL departures. South Carolina elevated former Alabama coach Mike Shula as offensive coordinator after Dowell Loggains left for Appalachian State. Defensive coordinator Clayton White is back for his fifth season, and the rest of the staff is intact.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Luke Altmyer is back for his third season as Illinois' primary starter, despite generating interest from Tennessee as a transfer candidate.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Highly unlikely. Altmyer is entrenched as Illinois' QB1 for his final college season after earning honorable mention All-Big Ten honors. He enters 2025 as one of the nation's most experienced signal-callers, and possibly a national awards candidate. Illinois has some insurance with transfer Ethan Hampton , but he, too, will depart in 2026.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Coach Bret Bielema's best Wisconsin teams had A-list offensive lines, and Illinois will have its best of Bielema's tenure. The Illini retained tackle JC Davis , a third-team All-Big Ten selection, as well as fellow seniors Josh Kreutz , Josh Gesky and Melvin Priestly . Illinois will have significant turnover in 2026 but the line looks very solid. The defensive line has an opposite look with many transfers in immediate roles, including James Thompson Jr . and Curt Neal , both from Wisconsin.
Roster management: After a 10-win season, Illinois has set itself up well for future success. The team's ability to retain Altmyer, Davis, star outside linebacker Gabe Jacas and others bodes well for the future. Illinois added at wide receiver, its primary position of need, with Hudson Clement (West Virginia) and Justin Bowick (Ball State), and also at defensive line. Running back Josh McCray was the only big portal loss. Illinois' in-state recruiting has been on the rise, as the team landed Nasir Rankin , a top-175 national prospect from Chicago for the 2026 class.
Star power: The Illini have plenty for 2025, including Jacas, a national awards candidate and a headache for opposing offenses. All-Big Ten safety Xavier Scott is also back, along with Davis and Altmyer. Illinois has other defenders to watch, including safety Miles Scott and linebacker Dylan Rosiek . The only concern is how much the roster will turn over for 2026.
Coaching staff: Bielema is the coach Illinois has waited decades for. He understands how to win in the Big Ten and can adjust to current roster challenges. Armed with a six-year contract extension, Bielema retained his staff from 2024, including primary coordinators Barry Lunney Jr. (offense) and Aaron Henry (defense).
Previous future power ranking: 15
Returning quarterback: No. Jaxson Dart was the No. 25 overall selection in the NFL draft after finishing his Ole Miss career with whopping totals for passing yards (10,617), total offensive yards (12,115) and touchdown passes (72). Ole Miss will pass the QB torch this fall.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Coach Lane Kiffin has been developing sophomore Austin Simmons to be Dart's likely successor. He should lead the offense for multiple seasons, but Kiffin also got some insurance in Trinidad Chambliss , who helped Ferris State to a Division II national title, as well as Oklahoma State transfer Maealiuaki Smith . Redshirt freshman AJ Maddox also returns.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The defensive front will look mostly different after losing NFL first-round draft pick Walter Nolen III , ends Princely Umanmielen and Jared Ivey , and tackle JJ Pegues to the pros. Ole Miss does bring back a promising group with senior tackle Zxavian Harris and promising sophomores Kam Franklin and Jamarious Brown . The team also addressed the pass-rushing departures with transfers Princewill Umanmielen (Nebraska) and Da'Shawn Womack (LSU). Ole Miss' offensive line likely will be fluid until the season, after injuries cropped up this spring. Tackles Diego Pounds and Jayden Williams return with starting experience, and Ole Miss added a potential plug-and-play transfer in Patrick Kutas (Arkansas), as well as promising younger linemen such as Delano Townsend (UAB).
Roster management: Ole Miss had one of its most talented rosters in decades last fall and won 10 games but fell short of the CFP. Kiffin has had good success in the portal and continued during this cycle to load up on defensive backs, edge rushers, offensive linemen like Kutas and a group of receivers headlined by De'Zhaun Stribling (Oklahoma State) and Harrison Wallace III (Penn State). They join top returning wideout, junior Cayden Lee , among several key holdovers -- junior linebacker Suntarine Perkins , Harris, tight end Dae'Quan Wright -- from 2024. The Rebels took a few portal hits in the secondary but most of their outgoing transfers were reserves. Ole Miss has relied less on high school players, but signed ESPN's No. 16 class for 2025.
Star power: Perkins earned third-team All-SEC honors last fall after leading the team in tackles for loss (14) and tying for the top spot in sacks (10.5). Wide receiver will be a spot to watch as Lee, Stribling and Wallace all compete for catches and postseason recognition. Ole Miss added second-team All-Sun Belt running back Damien Taylor , and some of the incoming linemen -- Umanmielen, Kutas, Williams -- could be in the All-SEC mix. Running back Logan Diggs also could be worth watching as he comes back from an ACL injury.
Coaching staff: Kiffin and his staff face an interesting roster reset after losing so many top-level talents. The coaches will do so without dealing with much change, as coordinators Pete Golding (defense) and Charlie Weis Jr. (offense) are back, alongside most of the position coaches. Kiffin has done a nice job of keeping assistants amid a successful stretch on the field.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Top 10 national recruit DJ Lagway emerged as Florida's starter last season, and displayed impressive deep-ball accuracy, finishing with 1,915 passing yards and 12 touchdowns. He didn't throw this spring because of a shoulder injury but should be ready for preseason camp.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Extremely likely. Florida rightfully is riding with Lagway and the only question entering 2025 concerns his shoulder/elbow health. The team added some veteran insurance behind him with Louisville transfer Harrison Bailey .
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Both groups project well, especially an offensive line that returns four starters, including All-America center Jake Slaughter and guard Damieon George Jr . The Gators excelled in both pass protection and run blocking, and promising sophomore Bryce Lovett is pegged to take over at right tackle. Florida brings back one of the SEC's top defensive line tandems in senior tackle Caleb Banks and senior end Tyreak Sapp , who led the team in both sacks (7) and tackles for loss (13). Jamari Lyons is back from a broken ankle, and edge George Gumbs Jr . had five sacks last fall.
Roster management: A small number of incoming transfers (seven) underscores how pleased Florida is with its returning group. The Gators retained several players who could have gone to the NFL, especially linemen Slaughter, Banks and Sapp. They also brought back one of the nation's top young offensive backfields in Lagway and running back Jadan Baugh . Florida added veteran transfer wide receiver J.Michael Sturdivant (UCLA) and several depth pieces in the secondary and defensive front. The Gators signed consecutive No. 10 recruiting classes.
Star power: Coach Billy Napier has his best roster entering Year 4, headlined by an established star in Slaughter, experienced defensive linemen in Banks and Sapp, and a group of exciting non-seniors, including Lagway, Baugh and safety Bryce Thornton . Sturdivant led Cal in receiving in 2022 and earned honorable mention All-Pac-12 honors. Both of Florida's lines could be well-represented on the All-SEC teams.
Coaching staff: Napier is in a much stronger position after a strong finish to 2024. He brought in Vinnie Sunseri to replace Austin Armstrong at defensive coordinator and work alongside veteran Ron Roberts. Russ Callaway is back to lead the offensive staff and work with Lagway.
Previous future power ranking: 22
Returning quarterback: Yes. Kevin Jennings certainly wasn't at his best in his most recent performance -- throwing three interceptions against Penn State in a CFP first-round game -- but he still helped the Mustangs to the ACC title game and the playoff in their first season as an ACC member. Jennings put up excellent overall numbers in his first season as the starter, passing for 3,245 yards and 23 touchdowns, and adding five rushing scores.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. Jennings will be a redshirt junior this fall and is set up to lead SMU through the 2026 season. SMU has good continuity around him with offensive coordinator Casey Woods and quarterbacks coach D'Eriq King.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: SMU's defensive line gets overlooked at times with all the attention on the offense, but coach Rhett Lashlee and his staff have built very good fronts. Despite some key departures, the Mustangs bring back senior ends Cameron Robertson and Isaiah Smith , who combined for 14 sacks and 19 tackles for loss in 2024. The team also addressed the interior with Purdue transfer Jeffrey M'Ba and also picked up some depth. SMU's offensive line returns tackle PJ Williams and guard Logan Parr , who both earned third-team All-ACC honors last fall, and tackle Savion Byrd . Transfer Addison Nichols started throughout 2024 for Arkansas.
Roster management: Lashlee and his staff continue to do a nice job here, retaining a number of All-ACC players while being targeted with portal additions and helping positions like defensive tackle and the interior offensive line. The overall number of defenders leaving could impact 2025 but SMU has others ready for bigger roles. SMU lost quarterback recruit Keelon Russell to Alabama but still signed ESPN's No. 30 class for 2025.
Star power: After a CFP breakthrough, SMU returns several standouts on both sides of the ball. Jennings has a great opportunity to rebound after a rough postseason, and will have some protection up front with Williams, Parr and Byrd, as well as a proven target in tight end RJ Maryland . The defense retains some sizzle, as first-team All-ACC selection Isaiah Nwokobia and Ahmaad Moses form a nice tandem at safety. Defensive ends Robertson and Smith should contend for all-league honors.
Coaching staff: Lashlee has taken SMU to the next level and brings back his staff despite head coaching interest in coordinators Woods and Scott Symons (defense). The only uncertainty is whether Lashlee, who will undoubtedly be targeted by SEC teams with vacancies, remains in Dallas or tries to make a move in 2026.
Previous future power ranking: 5
Returning quarterback: No (thankfully?). Michigan needed a reset at quarterback after a dreadful passing season, and will turn to No. 1 overall recruit Bryce Underwood or Fresno State transfer Mikey Keene this season.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Extremely. The Wolverines have gone all in with Underwood, their first mega high school signing of the NIL era. Unless things go very wrong, Underwood will be leading Michigan's offense through the 2026 season and beyond.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Line play propelled Michigan's run to three consecutive Big Ten titles and the 2023 national championship, but both groups have been hit by NFL exits. The defensive line should be solid this fall if tackle transfers Tre Williams (Clemson) and Damon Payne Jr . (Alabama) pan out. The offensive line enters a significant season with less-established players, and young tackles like Andrew Sprague and Evan Link must keep developing.
Roster management: Coach Sherrone Moore is starting to flex some recruiting muscle, as Michigan finished with ESPN's No. 7 class for 2025, boosted by Underwood. Michigan has been smart and selective in the portal, and its additions along both lines and at running back with Alabama transfer Justice Haynes will impact the upcoming season.
Star power: There are massive expectations around Underwood, and his development the next two seasons will shape Michigan's overall outlook. The Wolverines return one of the nation's best kickers in Dominic Zvada , and defenders like end Derrick Moore and cornerback Zeke Berry should contend for All-Big Ten honors.
Coaching staff: Moore has settled in after much of the staff followed predecessor Jim Harbaugh to the Los Angeles Chargers. He will be judged largely on the success of offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey, who had no previous ties to Moore or Michigan. The team retained defensive coordinator Wink Martindale for a second season.
Previous future power ranking: Not ranked
Returning quarterback: Yes. Redshirt sophomore Sam Leavitt is back after helping Arizona State to a Big 12 title and a CFP appearance. The Big 12 Freshman and Newcomer of the Year set an ASU freshman record with 3,328 yards of total offense.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Hinges on the upcoming season. Leavitt has three years of eligibility left but also can move to the NFL after the 2025 season. Coach Kenny Dillingham thinks he will be a coveted pro prospect, as he showed accuracy, efficiency and the ability to throw the deep ball.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: The offensive line returns good experience and depth despite losing first-team All-Big 12 center Leif Fautanu . Four seniors with starting experience -- tackles Josh Atkins and Max Iheanachor , guard Kyle Scott and guard/center Ben Coleman are all back. ASU also added Texas State transfer Jimeto Obigbo as an answer at guard. The defensive front drew strong reviews this spring behind a veteran core -- seniors Clayton Smith , Prince Dorbah , Justin Wodtly and Jacob Kongaika , and junior CJ Fite . ASU has been excellent against the run but looks for more pass-rushing production.
Roster management: Dillingham has taken a refreshing approach toward the portal, making some good additions -- especially in the secondary -- with Kyndrich Breedlove (Purdue), Adrian Wilson (Washington State) and others, as well as at running back with Army's Kanye Udoh . The Sun Devils are off to a promising start in 2026 recruiting with ESPN's No. 9 class.
Star power: Arizona State has plenty coming off of the CFP team. Leavitt and wide receiver Jordyn Tyson are both All-America type candidates. Senior tight end Chamon Metayer earned All-Big-12 recognition in 2024, as did safety Xavion Alford on the defensive side. Several linemen should be in the all-league mix this year, including Smith at defensive end and Coleman, who shifts to center.
Coaching staff: Dillingham has made ASU a desirable destination for both players and coaches. ASU returns both primary coordinators from the Big 12 championship team, including OC Marcus Arroyo, a Broyles Award finalist in 2024. The staff has a nice mix of youth and experience, on top of a big name like wide receivers coach Hines Ward, a four-time Pro Bowl receiver with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham explains the differences his team is facing this season after coming off a Big 12 title last season.
Previous future power ranking: 24
Returning quarterback: No. Cam Ward had record-setting numbers in his only season at the U, before becoming the No. 1 pick in April's NFL draft. Miami made arguably an even bigger transfer portal splash in landing Carson Beck , a multiyear starter at Georgia.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very slim. Beck, who entered the 2024 season as one of the top NFL prospects at quarterback, will be playing his sixth and final college season. Miami will give him the reins before changing QBs again in 2026. Backup Emory Williams , who started twice in 2023 and performed well in Miami's spring game, is a redshirt sophomore.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Coach Mario Cristobal doubled down on emphasizing line play this offseason, and hopes a mix of experienced returnees and transfers produces the right formula. Defensive ends Akheem Mesidor and Rueben Bain Jr . anchor the front after combining for nine sacks last season. Bain has high NFL draft potential entering his junior season. Junior Ahmad Moten is back to man one of the interior spots. Cristobal will build the offensive line around junior tackle Francis Mauigoa and transfer center James Brockermeyer , an honorable mention All-Big 12 selection at TCU. The O-line depth, not surprisingly, is strong.
Roster management: If championships were awarded for portal prowess and recruiting, Cristobal would have a few at Miami. He's relentless with both transfers and high school recruits, and has upgraded the program in both areas. Miami's transfer haul includes Beck, a strong crop of defensive backs that includes Charles Brantley (Michigan State) and Xavier Lucas (Wisconsin), Brockermeyer and a new-look wide receiver group that includes CJ Daniels (LSU). Miami lost a few contributors but gained more. Cristobal has signed consecutive top-15 recruiting classes, and the 2026 group ranks 15th.
Star power: Miami isn't lacking here with Beck, a two-year starter at Georgia, as well as returnees such as Mauigoa, Bain and Mesidor on the offensive line, and running backs Mark Fletcher Jr . and Jordan Lyle . Several of the non-QB transfers should be in the mix, too, including Brantley, Lucas, Brockermeyer and Daniels.
Coaching staff: After falling just shy of the CFP in 2024, Miami has no excuses as it enters its fourth season under Cristobal. Shannon Dawson is back after coordinating the nation's top offense last season, and Cristobal made a smart hire with new defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman from Minnesota. Hetherman will oversee a staff with three new position coaches.
Previous future power ranking: 4
Returning quarterback: No. Jalen Milroe is off to the NFL after two seasons as Alabama's starter. He had 2,884 passing yards and 16 touchdowns, and led the Tide in rushing with 726 yards and 20 scores.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Very likely. All three players competing for the top job -- redshirt junior Ty Simpson , redshirt sophomore Austin Mack and incoming freshman Keelon Russell -- have multiple seasons of eligibility left. Simpson had 25 pass attempts in six games last fall.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Alabama certainly will miss NFL first-round draft pick Tyler Booker on its offensive line, but a good core of starters returns, including second-team All-SEC tackle Kadyn Proctor , center Parker Brailsford and guard Jaeden Roberts . The team can build around them with Texas A&M transfer Kam Dewberry and others, but the overall outlook is good through 2026. Alabama lacked a dominant pass rusher last season but returns a solid interior tandem in senior Tim Keenan III and junior James Smith . LT Overton is back at end after a team-high nine quarterback hurries. Florida transfer Kelby Collins will be a factor.
Roster management: The Tide took more depth hits with portal losses but kept their mainstay players at most positions, including wide receiver Ryan Williams , Proctor, linebacker Deontae Lawson and defensive backs Domani Jackson , Zabien Brown and Keon Sabb . Alabama didn't add a ton of transfers but addressed depth on both lines and on the perimeter with wide receiver Isaiah Horton (Miami) and tight end Brody Dalton (Troy). Coach Kalen DeBoer's first full recruiting class ranked No. 4 nationally, including Russell, a five-star player, and 14 other ESPN 300 prospects. The 2026 class, though, is off to a slower start.
Star power: There's a reason Williams is one of the cover players for EA Sports College Football 26. He should be in contention for national honors, along with Proctor, Lawson and potentially others. The 325-pound Keenan could be poised for a big year at defensive tackle, and Alabama's retention in the secondary could produce more All-SEC-type players. Jam Miller should be Alabama's featured running back after rushing for 668 yards last fall.
Coaching staff: DeBoer should have more of an imprint on the roster and program in Year 2, but must deliver a CFP appearance, at minimum. He reunited with offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, his OC at Washington and Fresno State, and retained the rest of his on-field staff.
Previous future power ranking: 13
Returning quarterback: Surprisingly, no. Nico Iamaleava 's stunning departure at the end of spring practice dramatically altered Tennessee's plans at QB. Iamaleava was only a sophomore and conceivably could have led the offense through at least 2026. Instead, Tennessee had to scramble for a replacement in the spring portal.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Highly unlikely. After making runs at several established Power 4 quarterbacks, Tennessee added Joey Aguilar in what was essentially a QB swap with UCLA. Aguilar went through the spring with the Bruins after transferring from Appalachian State, where he had two 3,000-yard passing seasons. He's a senior, so Tennessee will need a new starter in 2026, possibly redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger or incoming freshman George MacIntyre , an ESPN 300 recruit.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Tennessee not only will have a new quarterback but a largely new offensive line blocking for him. Cooper Mays and several other interior line mainstays are gone as the Vols build around tackle Lance Heard with transfers Sam Pendleton (Notre Dame) and Wendell Moe (Arizona). Other returnees will take on bigger roles along with the addition of decorated incoming freshman tackle David Sanders Jr ., ESPN's No. 7 overall recruit. There are fewer questions on the defensive line despite James Pearce Jr .'s exit to the NFL, as Tennessee returns senior tackles Bryson Eason and Jaxson Moi , and senior edge Joshua Josephs , who had a team-high three forced fumbles in 2024. Dominic Bailey and Tyre West add depth to the end spot after combining for four sacks last season.
Roster management: Iamaleava's departure was jarring and creates more doubt about a Tennessee team that reached the CFP last fall but loses four players to the NFL draft and other key contributors. The Vols didn't do a ton in the portal other than their offensive line additions and grabbing running back Star Thomas , a productive transfer from Duke. Tennessee lost a number of defensive contributors to other Power 4 programs, as well as Squirrel White and several other wide receivers. Colorado transfer Colton Hood is a nice pickup for the secondary. The Vols retained standout cornerback Jermod McCoy , linebacker and top tackler Arion Carter and others on defense, and productive tight end Miles Kitselman and several key wideouts. Tennessee is recruiting well with top-15 classes in 2024 and 2025, and ranks No. 18 for its 2026 class.
Star power: McCoy earned second-team All-SEC honors last season after sharing the team lead with four interceptions, while adding a forced fumble. Carter, Josephs and other returning defenders should be all-conference contenders. Coach Josh Heupel's offense creates opportunities for stardom, which should help Aguilar, Thomas, the returning receivers and other running backs like sophomores DeSean Bishop and Peyton Lewis . Moe was a second-team All-Pac 12 selection for Arizona in 2023.
Coaching staff: After leading Tennessee to its first playoff appearance, Heupel has exceeded most outside expectations with a 37-15 record in Knoxville. He brings back primary coordinators Tim Banks (defense) and Joey Halzle (offense), while making a few changes to the group of position coaches.
Paul Finebaum breaks down the quarterback situations for Georgia, Texas and Tennessee ahead of the college football season.
Previous future power ranking: 8
Returning quarterback: Yes. Garrett Nussmeier waited his turn to start and capitalized in 2024, finishing fifth nationally in passing yards (4,052) and rising into the top 10 across several LSU career passing category charts. He's 10-4 as LSU's starter with two bowl MVP awards.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Extremely unlikely. Nussmeier is back for his fifth and final season and will be a top Heisman Trophy candidate and NFL draft prospect. He ranks ninth in LSU history with 5,772 passing yards despite starting only one full season. LSU added sophomore Michael Van Buren Jr ., who became Mississippi State's primary starter last fall, as a backup.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: LSU lost players on both lines to the NFL, including offensive tackleWill Campbell , the No. 4 selection. The defensive front projects as one of the team's stronger groups, as LSU added key transfers Patrick Payton (Florida State), Jack Pyburn (Florida), Jimari Butler (Nebraska) and others. Payton has 15 career sacks. The Tigers also have several promising sophomores, including Dominick McKinley , who had three sacks last fall. Sophomore DJ Chester is the only returning starter on the offensive line, which added notable transfers in center Braelin Moore (Virginia Tech) and guard Josh Thompson (Northwestern). Coach Brian Kelly likes the depth of a group without many seniors.
Roster management: The Tigers had collected several good transfers in the portal era but hadn't made an all-out push like what happened in the winter and spring. LSU made key gains at wide receiver with Barion Brown (Kentucky) and Nic Anderson (Oklahoma), both lines, the tight end room with Bauer Sharp (Oklahoma) and the secondary with cornerback Mansoor Delane (Virginia Tech) and others. The Tigers also retained Nussmeier, standout linebacker Whit Weeks and top receiver Aaron Anderson , didn't lose many mainstays and brought in the nation's No. 8 recruiting class, which includes potential early contributors like cornerback DJ Pickett and running back Harlem Berry . The 2026 class currently ranks 11th nationally.
Star power: Nussmeier will be on all the national award lists as he tries to build on a 4,000-yard passing season and take LSU back to the CFP. LSU's offense also could put players like Brown, Nic Anderson, Aaron Anderson, Sharp and top rusher Caden Durham on the All-SEC radar. The Tigers bring back Weeks, a first-team All-SEC player who will be in the national awards conversation, as well as all-conference return specialist Zavion Thomas . Delane earned third-team All-ACC honors last fall, and several of LSU's transfer linemen -- Thompson, Moore, Payton -- should contend for those lists.
Coaching staff: Kelly is still seeking his first CFP appearance at LSU, where his three predecessors -- Ed Orgeron, Les Miles and Nick Saban -- had already won national titles by this point in their tenures. (Orgeron was interim coach in 2016.) He has good staff continuity with coordinators Blake Baker (defense) and Joe Sloan (offense), and added former Florida State offensive coordinator Alex Atkins as tight ends coach.
Previous future power ranking: 12
Returning quarterback: Yes. Cade Klubnik is back for his third and final season as Clemson's starter, after taking a significant step in 2024. He accounted for 43 touchdowns and finished with 3,639 passing yards and 4,102 yards of total offense.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Highly unlikely. The 2025 season belongs to Klubnik, who will leave Clemson as one of its most accomplished quarterbacks. Barring a major injury, Klubnik will lead the Tigers before moving onto the NFL. Backup Christopher Vizzina is a redshirt sophomore.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Clemson's best teams have excellent defensive lines, and the 2025 version projects very well. All-America candidates TJ Parker and Peter Woods are back, and both are projected as top picks for the 2026 NFL draft. Clemson finally dipped its toe into the transfer portal and added Purdue defensive end Will Heldt , who had five sacks and 10 tackles for loss last fall. Veteran tackle DeMonte Capehart is also back. The offensive line returns four starters, including three -- center Ryan Linthicum , tackle Tristan Leigh and guard Walker Parks -- who received honorable mention All-ACC honors.
Roster management: The big change is coach Dabo Swinney's willingness to add a few portal pieces. Heldt joins an already talented defensive line, and Missouri State's Tristan Smith provides a big frame (6-foot-5, 205 pounds) for the receiving corps. Clemson had a relatively small number of outgoing transfers, although defensive tackle Tre Williams could be missed.
Star power: Clemson is loaded on both sides of the ball and at positions where it historically thrives, like defensive line and wide receiver. Parker and Woods are national awards candidates, along with Klubnik and wide receiver Antonio Williams , a first-team All-ACC selection last year. Cornerback Avieon Terrell was a second-team all-league selection, and several offensive linemen should gain consideration, including Linthicum, Parks and Leigh.
Coaching staff: After a surprising ACC title and a not surprising early CFP exit, Swinney has a team poised for a national title push. He made a necessary defensive coordinator change to boost a regressing unit and hired Tom Allen, the former Indiana coach who helped Penn State to the CFP semifinal as coordinator in 2024.
Previous future power ranking: 10
Returning quarterback: Yes. Drew Allar returns for his third season as Penn State's starter after earning honorable mention All-Big Ten honors and finishing as a Davey O'Brien Award semifinalist.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Not happening. Barring injury, Allar will play his final college season and then become one of the top picks in the 2026 NFL draft.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Penn State's rise to become a national contender not surprisingly has coincided with improvement and stability along the offensive line under coach Phil Trautwein. Seniors Drew Shelton and Nick Dawkins should carry the group in 2026, and several non-seniors like junior guard Olaivavega Ioane are in the fold. PSU must replace All-America end Abdul Carter but has another star pass rusher in Dani Dennis-Sutton , and veterans like tackle Zane Durant .
Roster management: Penn State had a fairly light portal year except for at its most pressing position of need: wide receiver, where it added All-ACC selection Trebor Pena (Syracuse), as well as Devonte Ross (Troy) and Kyron Hudson (USC). The team did a great job retaining its top stars, including Allar, Dennis-Sutton and running backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen . After hovering around the top 10-15 in recruiting classes, Penn State is off to a strong start for 2026 with the No. 4 class.
Star power: There is plenty for 2025 as Allar, Singleton, Allen and Dennis-Sutton will be on the national radar. Pena could be among the Big Ten's top receivers and several others are worth watching, including Ioane, defensive backs AJ Harris and Zakee Wheatley and linebackers Tony Rojas and Dominic DeLuca .
Coaching staff: James Franklin reached his second Big Ten title game and secured his first two CFP victories in 2024, but the "Big Game James" label still will follow him, especially in a 2025 season packed with pressure. He retained talented offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki and much of the staff, and made a major splash by hiring defensive coordinator Jim Knowles away from Ohio State.
Previous future power ranking: 7
Returning quarterback: No. Riley Leonard helped Notre Dame to its first three CFP wins and a national title game appearance in his only year with the Irish. He was a sixth-round NFL draft pick by Indianapolis.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB on roster: Definite potential. Notre Dame will go with redshirt freshman CJ Carr or third-year sophomore Kenny Minchey as its starter in 2025. Carr, ESPN's No. 36 overall recruit in the 2024 class, has been labeled Notre Dame's quarterback of the future and could enter that role this fall.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Notre Dame's depth along both lines showed up repeatedly in 2024 after a string of major injuries. The upshot is an offensive line that, despite no seniors as projected starters, should be one of the nation's most talented groups. Notre Dame could have a remarkably similar O-line the next two seasons with tackle Anthonie Knapp and guard/tackle Charles Jagusah carrying sophomore eligibility. The defensive line must replace more in the short term but regains edges Jordan Botelho and Boubacar Traore from injury and returns Joshua Burnham , Gabriel Rubio and others.
Roster management: Coach Marcus Freeman has accelerated Notre Dame's recruiting efforts, as the team's 2026 recruiting class currently sits at No. 3 in ESPN's national rankings. The Irish aren't a volume transfer program, but they addressed a clear need at wide receiver with Malachi Fields (Virginia) and Will Pauling (Wisconsin). Notre Dame also enhanced its depth in the secondary with cornerback DeVonta Smith (Alabama) and safety Jalen Stroman (Virginia Tech). The Irish did a good job retaining arguably the nation's best running back room and its gifted young offensive linemen.
Star power: The team has a bona fide Heisman Trophy candidate in running back Jeremiyah Love , whose electric speed and added bulk likely will increase his usage. Several offensive linemen should be in the mix for national awards, as will defenders like linebacker Drayk Bowen , cornerback Leonard Moore and safety Adon Shuler .
Coaching staff: After some unsightly losses, Freeman's run to the national title game established him as one of the sport's top young coaches. An offensive staff led by coordinator Mike Denbrock is loaded with experience. New defensive coordinator Chris Ash fills big shoes in replacing Al Golden, the Broyles Award winner.
Previous future power ranking: 6
Returning quarterback: No. For the second straight year, Oregon must replace a record-setting quarterback in Dillon Gabriel , an NFL third-round draft pick of Cleveland.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: A definite possibility. Dante Moore will be entering his third college season and second at Oregon after transferring in from UCLA. Moore, ESPN's No. 2 overall recruit in 2023, started five games for UCLA but barely played last fall and might benefit from two full seasons as a college starter.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Coach Dan Lanning has been masterful in building up Oregon's line play, but both groups will be tested after recent NFL draft losses. The defensive end spot looks strong with juniors Matayo Uiagalelei and Teitum Tuioti both back, but there are some immediate questions inside. Oregon's offensive line will be transfer-heavy in the short term with Isaiah World (Nevada), Alex Harkey (Texas State) and Emmanuel Pregnon (USC) arriving.
Roster management: Lanning has been everything Oregon asked for and more in the personnel space. Oregon is consistently contending for top recruits and transfers, adding several for 2025 at offensive line, running back Makhi Hughes (Tulane) and defensive backs Dillon Thieneman (Purdue) and Theran Johnson (Northwestern). Oregon signed top-eight recruiting classes in the past three seasons. In the 2025 class, the Ducks signed five-star receiver Dakorien Moore , who could make an immediate impact this fall .
Star power: Despite losing a team-record 10 players to the NFL draft, Oregon retained potential national award candidates like Uiagalelei and linebacker Bryce Boettcher while adding impact transfers like Hughes, World, Thieneman and Johnson. Moore certainly has the ability to become Oregon's next impact quarterback. Another top player, receiver Evan Stewart , would likely have been a big name in the 2025 season, but he suffered a knee injury in early June that could limit his availability this season .
Coaching staff: Lanning has made Oregon a place where both players and coaches want to stay. He retained his coordinators and lost only one assistant to the NFL from the Big Ten championship team. Oregon's staff is filled with younger coaches who thrive in recruiting.
Previous future power ranking: 1
Returning quarterback: Kind of. Carson Beck was Georgia's primary starter the past two seasons, but his elbow injury in the SEC championship game put the spotlight on Gunner Stockton , who finished that contest and started the CFP quarterfinal against Notre Dame. Now, Stockton is back as a redshirt junior.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: A lot depends on this fall. Georgia opted not to add a proven transfer following Beck's departure, and will go with Stockton, the No. 110 overall recruit in 2022, who has waited his turn. If he pans out, he could play through 2026. Georgia also has redshirt freshman Ryan Puglisi and other younger quarterbacks, but could go transfer hunting.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Both lines lose players to the NFL draft, including defensive end Mykel Williams , the No. 11 pick. Georgia returns Christen Miller , who started 10 games on the defensive line, along with Gabe Harris Jr . and Jordan Hall , who was limited by injuries last fall. The offensive line brings back only one starter in Earnest Greene III , who enters his third year with the top group, but needs part-time starters Micah Morris and Drew Bobo to take on bigger roles, and other depth pieces to develop.
Roster management: Georgia's decision not to add a transfer quarterback will be scrutinized if Stockton struggles, but the team brought in talent at other offensive skill spots, including wide receivers Zachariah Branch (USC) and Noah Thomas (Texas A&M), and running back Josh McCray , who led 10-win Illinois in rushing last fall. The team added to its depth on defense and retained most of its best players other than Beck, a surprise portal entry. Georgia signed ESPN's top-ranked recruiting class in 2024 and No. 2 class this year.
Star power: Georgia loses most of its All-SEC players other than cornerback Daylen Everette and punter Brett Thorson , both third-team selections. Miller should be in the mix for all-league honors, but there aren't many obvious candidates along the lines. Running back Nate Frazier will be in more of a featured role after a solid freshman season. Branch has high-level potential as a receiver and a return man, and Thomas led Texas A&M in receiving last fall. Georgia also has more experience in the secondary with safety KJ Bolden and others coming back.
Coaching staff: Smart won his third SEC title last fall but is looking for his first CFP win since claiming the second of consecutive national titles in 2023. Despite speculation about offensive coordinator Mike Bobo, there was no change there and most of the staff returns, including defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann, a candidate for North Carolina's coaching vacancy.
Previous future power ranking: 2
Returning quarterback: No. Will Howard helped Ohio State to a national title in his only season as a Buckeye, and then was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the sixth round of the NFL draft.
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Quite likely. Ohio State has the smallest and least experienced quarterback room of coach Ryan Day's tenure, mainly because Julian Sayin is in line to take over. Sayin, a redshirt freshman who transferred from Alabama after Nick Saban retired, was ESPN's No. 9 recruit in the 2024 class. He must beat out junior Lincoln Kienholz but could lead the offense at least through 2026.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Both lines will look different after losing three first-round NFL draft picks -- Donovan Jackson , Tyleik Williams and Josh Simmons -- and three others in the top 150 selections. New offensive line coach Tyler Bowen must build around juniors Carson Hinzman and Luke Montgomery , as well as several transfers. Veteran D-line coach Larry Johnson needs the next wave of rush men, including ends Kenyatta Jackson Jr . and Caden Curry , to slide in for those gone to the league.
Roster management: Ohio State addressed both lines in the portal, starting in the winter with offensive tackles Ethan Onianwa (Rice) and Phillip Daniels (Minnesota), and then adding pass rusher Beau Atkinson from North Carolina. Tight end Max Klare (Purdue) could be a massive addition to the passing game. The Buckeyes had top-5 recruiting classes in 2024 and 2025, and their 2026 class ranks No. 3.
Star power: Despite losing a record-tying 14 players to the NFL draft, Ohio State might have the nation's best overall player in wide receiver Jeremiah Smith , who will also play in 2026, and perhaps the best defender in Caleb Downs . Linebacker Sonny Styles projects as one of the nation's top linebackers, and transfers like Klare on offense and Atkinson on defense should make a big impact.
Coaching staff: Day is a new man after winning his first national title, which validates so much of his success. He oversees one of the top personnel operations in the sport, although there are some renewed questions about his coordinator spots, with Brian Hartline returning as the primary OC and longtime NFL coach Matt Patricia coming in to run the defense.
Previous future power ranking: 3
Returning quarterback: No. Quinn Ewers was Texas' primary starter for the past three seasons and became a seventh-round NFL draft pick by Miami Dolphins .
Likelihood of a multiyear QB: Wouldn't rule it out. Arch Manning finally becomes QB1 for the Longhorns, and he could position himself as a top NFL draft selection in 2026. But Manning is in a unique situation because of his background and the money he has already earned in college. He doesn't need to rush off to begin his pro career and could benefit from a second season as the starter under coach Steve Sarkisian.
Offensive line/defensive line outlook: Sarkisian got the Texas job largely because of his reputation with playcalling and quarterbacks, but his greatest gains have come up front, especially elevating an underperforming offensive line. The challenge will be replacing six linemen (three offense, three defense) selected in the NFL draft. Senior guard DJ Campbell is the only offensive line starter returning, and Texas will need tackle Trevor Goosby and others to step up. There are a few more certainties on the defensive front with Colin Simmons and Ethan Burke both back, but the interior will have some questions.
Roster management: Sarkisian has backed up the recruiting expectations, signing ESPN's top-rated 2025 class after bringing in the No. 5 class in 2024. Texas was selective in the portal and made quite possibly its biggest splash in the spring with tight end Jack Endries from Cal. The defensive tackle spot has been hit hard by the past two NFL drafts, and Texas supplemented with transfers Cole Brevard (Purdue), Travis Shaw (North Carolina) and Hero Kanu (Ohio State).
Star power: Manning will be the most-watched player in the sport entering the fall and seemingly has the talent to become a national awards candidate. Simmons and linebacker Anthony Hill Jr . will be on the radar for top defensive honors, and safety Michael Taaffe , sophomore wide receiver Ryan Wingo and others are worth watching.
Coaching staff: Sarkisian's growth as a head coach has been on full display the past few seasons, as he led Texas to CFP appearances in different conferences. He's at an A-list job and likely isn't going anywhere, and he has done a good job establishing and maintaining a veteran staff that includes coordinators Kyle Flood (offense), Pete Kwiatkowski (defense) and Jeff Banks (special teams).
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