Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer acknowledges the "must-win" pressure despite a 20-8 record in two seasons. Fans expect championships, not just competitive seasons. Meanwhile, Texas is upgrading its offense with running backs Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown, plus receiver Cam Coleman. The Longhorns expect a more explosive unit with Arch Manning returning as full-time starter.

USC coach Lincoln Riley feels one snap away from the playoffs while welcoming 17-year-old QB Jonas Williams. The freshman holds Illinois high school records with 11,347 passing yards and 147 TDs. Oregon celebrated its biggest offseason win as at least eight NFL prospects, including Dante Moore, chose to return. Coach Dan Lanning called it the biggest returning group he's experienced.

Texas Tech aims to become the first Big 12 school to win back-to-back conference titles since Oklahoma's six-year run. First-year Auburn coach Alex Golesh feels confident about his linebackers and defensive line but questions his corners. The Tigers' offensive line remains his primary concern across two decades of coaching.