There’s no next Indiana; four non-Top 10 teams could challenge for title

By the Editorial Team · Friday, August 28, 2026

LSU, Southern California, Texas Tech, and Washington are emerging as potential national championship contenders in the 2026 college football season despite being ranked outside the Top 10. While replicating Indiana’s unlikely title run from last year is improbable, these teams have key players and strategic advantages that could propel them into the College Football Playoff conversation.

The 2026 college football season presents several contenders outside the preseason Top 10 who could mount a serious challenge for the national championship, though replicating Indiana’s unexpected title run last year appears unlikely. Indiana’s rise—from unheralded to champion in just two years—remains a rare feat, with the last team outside the preseason Top 10 to claim the title having been Florida State in 2013.

Among the teams more realistically positioned to compete for the national title despite lower rankings are LSU, Southern California, Texas Tech, and Washington.

LSU, ranked No. 13, carries a legacy of recent success under coach Lane Kiffin, who has significantly bolstered the roster through his transfer portal acquisitions. With three national championships since 2000 already in the program’s history, LSU benefits from experience and a high level of talent. The emergence of quarterback Sam Leavitt could be a key factor in the Tigers’ championship aspirations, signaling that the team should not be overlooked despite being outside the Top 10.

Southern California, placed at No. 14, enters the season with optimism under coach Lincoln Riley. USC returns more starters than any other team, providing a foundation for continuity and experience. Quarterback Jayden Maiava is viewed as a promising talent, competing in a conference landscape that includes notable players like Big Ten quarterbacks Dante Moore and Julian Sayin. USC faces a demanding schedule, including matchups against Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana, but Riley’s ability to maximize this roster will be closely watched as the Trojans aim to demonstrate they can contend for a title.

Texas Tech, ranked No. 12, remains a strong contender in the Big 12 despite distractions surrounding quarterback Brendan Sorsby. The team’s defense, anchored by linebacker Ben Roberts, has been a formidable force, making it difficult for opponents to score. With only one other preseason Top 25 opponent, No. 24 Houston, on their schedule, the Red Raiders are well positioned to qualify for the College Football Playoff. However, their playoff potential hinges on the development of quarterback Will Hammond, whose improvement could elevate Texas Tech from playoff participants to genuine championship contenders.

Washington, coming in at No. 19, represents a longer shot but not an impossibility. The Huskies bring back quarterback Demond Williams Jr., who benefits from experienced support on the offensive line. While questions remain about Washington’s defensive depth and whether the team can improve on last year’s 9-4 record, the presence of a capable quarterback sustains hope that they could make a significant postseason run.

While the landscape suggests no team outside the Top 10 is likely to replicate Indiana’s swift rise to national champion status, these four teams possess varying degrees of potential to challenge for the title in the upcoming season.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.