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College Football Shakeup: Big Ten Claims New No. 1 Spot

ESPN General •
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Spring roster turnover has prompted an adjustment in the updated Way-Too-Early Top 25, confirming a power shift, with the Big Ten now controlling the top tier after winning three straight national championships. Ohio State ascends to the No. 1 position, leapfrogging last year's champion, Indiana, following heavy portal activity and coaching hires this offseason.

Ohio State benefits from the return of quarterback Julian Sayin and receiver Jeremiah Smith, giving coach Ryan Day an offense primed for contention despite a brutal schedule featuring trips to Texas and USC. The Buckeyes also bolstered their defense, bringing in talent like S Earl Little Jr. from Florida State and DL James Smith via Alabama transfers.

Last year's perfect 16-0 champion, Indiana, drops to sixth, facing the inevitable hangover after losing Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza and several key contributors. Meanwhile, Oregon jumps to No. 2, gaining quarterback Dylan Raiola, while Georgia maintains a top-four spot by leaning into its established run game and defense under Kirby Smart.

These spring rankings reflect significant movement driven by the transfer portal and coaching changes, suggesting the SEC's recent slide against Big Ten supremacy is the central narrative entering the 2026 season. Georgia sits at No. 3, showing the SEC still maintains serious CFP contenders.