The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Oregon Ducks are two powerhouse programs to keep an eye on as we head into the 2026 College Football season. ESPN's Bill Connelly has highlighted these B1G schools as prime contenders to continue the Big Ten's impressive streak of national championships.
Connelly's analysis, based on his SP+ rankings-a tempo- and opponent-adjusted measure of college football efficiency-suggests a strong outlook for both teams. While he's particularly optimistic about Oregon, he acknowledges Ohio State's formidable position as well.
For the Big Ten to secure its fourth different national champion in as many years-following Michigan, Ohio State, and Indiana-Oregon seems to be the frontrunner. Connelly's SP+ places the Ducks higher than other rankings, but they may have to overcome Ohio State to claim the title. The Buckeyes, starting the season as SP+'s No. 1, have a rich history and a solid returning roster, placing them slightly ahead of other contenders like Notre Dame and Georgia.
Oregon is bringing back a talented group, including key defensive prospects like A’Mauri Washington and Bear Alexander, along with linebacker Teitum Tuioti and EDGE rusher Matayo Uiagalelei. However, they face more coaching staff changes compared to Ohio State's relatively stable setup under Ryan Day.
Ohio State's schedule presents an opportunity to assert their dominance, especially with a pivotal matchup against Oregon at home in early November. Coming off a trip to face the USC Trojans, the Buckeyes will look to leverage their home advantage in what could be a clash of titans, potentially a No. 1 vs. No. 2 showdown by Week 10.
With the schedule favoring Ohio State, the stage is set for an epic battle, and the Buckeyes have a prime chance to prove that tradition can indeed triumph over emerging trends.