SEC Football: A Shifting Landscape in 2026
The Southeastern Conference remains college football’s powerhouse, but the pecking order is undergoing a significant shift. Recent rankings from CBS Sports offer a glimpse into the anticipated 2026 season, revealing a new hierarchy with Texas leading the way. This comes after Georgia secured its 16th SEC title, and third in the last four years.
Texas Ascends to the Top
The Longhorns are poised for a dominant 2026 campaign, largely due to the return of quarterback Arch Manning. While his initial performance didn’t immediately ignite expectations, Manning reportedly excelled in the latter half of the 2025 season. Texas has bolstered its roster with key transfers, including Cam Coleman and Hollywood Smothers, and added Will Muschamp as their defensive coordinator.
Georgia Remains a Contender, But Faces Challenges
Despite recent success, Georgia isn’t resting on its laurels. The Bulldogs are returning their offensive leader, quarterback Gunner Stockton, and star running back Nate Frazier. However, CBS Sports notes that Georgia wasn’t as active in the transfer portal as some of its rivals, currently ranking No. 53 in On3’s 2026 Team Transfer Portal Rankings. This relative inactivity could prove crucial in a conference as competitive as the SEC.
New Coaches and Transfer Portal Impact
Six SEC programs will feature new head coaches in 2026, creating a wave of uncertainty. Lane Kiffin’s move to LSU is particularly noteworthy. The Tigers have been aggressive in the transfer portal, securing 40 commitments while losing 33, including former Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt – the highest-rated player in the portal. This aggressive approach, combined with offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr.’s arrival from Ole Miss, suggests LSU is aiming for immediate impact.
Oklahoma’s Rise and Missouri’s Potential
Oklahoma experienced a resurgence in 2025, fueled by the arrival of transfer quarterback John Mateer and Brent Venables assuming control of defensive play-calling. Both are expected to reprise their roles in 2026, with further additions from the transfer portal positioning Oklahoma as a top SEC team. Missouri, meanwhile, is returning breakout running back Ahmad Hardy, who led all Power Four players in rushing yards per game in 2025. The addition of offensive coordinator Chip Lindsey could further elevate the Tigers’ offense.
Alabama’s Uncertain Future and Other Key Teams
Alabama faces significant questions heading into the 2026 season, particularly with the departure of quarterback Ty Simpson to the NFL Draft. While the Crimson Tide retain star wide receiver Ryan Williams and both coordinators, filling the quarterback position and addressing other roster gaps will be critical. Ole Miss’s fortunes hinge on quarterback Trinidad Chambliss’s eligibility, as he seeks a seventh year of play. Florida, under new head coach Jon Sumrall, is also expected to make a splash, capitalizing on his success at Tulane and securing key transfers like Eric Singleton Jr. And Cam Dooley.
The SEC’s Deepening Competition
The SEC’s expansion to nine conference games will further intensify the competition. The depth of the conference means that even teams currently ranked lower – like Tennessee, Auburn, Kentucky, Vanderbilt, Arkansas, and Mississippi State – have the potential to surprise. The league’s volatility suggests that a team currently in the bottom half of the rankings could easily climb into the top seven by the finish of the season.
FAQ
Q: Who is favored to win the SEC in 2026?
A: According to CBS Sports, Texas is the favorite to win the SEC in 2026.
Q: How many SEC teams have new head coaches in 2026?
A: Six SEC programs will have new head coaches in 2026.
Q: Which team was the most active in the transfer portal?
A: LSU has secured 40 players from the transfer portal.
Q: Is Alabama still considered a top team?
A: Alabama faces questions due to the departure of its quarterback and other roster needs, but retains key players and coordinators.
Did you know? LSU has added the highest-rated player in the transfer portal, quarterback Sam Leavitt.
Pro Tip: Maintain an eye on teams that have made significant additions through the transfer portal, as these additions can dramatically impact a team’s performance.
Stay tuned for further updates as spring practice begins and rosters solidify. The 2026 SEC season promises to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory.
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