Ohio State enters the 2026 preseason as the clear consensus favorite for the top spot in both the AP and Coaches Polls, buoyed by a loaded roster returning quarterback Julian Sayin, receiver Jeremiah Smith, and running back Bo Jackson after a 12-2 campaign that included a College Football Playoff appearance. Recent coaching adjustments, including the addition of offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, have reinforced expectations for an elite offense, while the Buckeyes face one of the nation’s toughest schedules. Oregon, Georgia, and Texas trail closely behind in early polls, with their own returning talent and depth creating a competitive field. The AP preseason rankings, set for release around August 17, will provide the first official signal, though early-season results and injury developments could shift sentiment quickly heading into September kickoffs.