As we look forward to the 2026 college football season, the excitement is building among fans eager to anticipate pivotal showdowns. The College Football Playoff National Championship concluded with Indiana claiming its first-ever title just over a week ago.

Yet, it’s never too soon to look at what lies ahead in college football, particularly during the offseason when fans are hopeful for their teams. Utilizing way-too-early rankings that outline the anticipated standings, we can identify key games that each top 25 team is most likely to focus on for this upcoming season.

Here’s a breakdown detailing one crucial match that each of the top 25 teams has on their calendar:

1. Ohio State

Game: at No. 8 Indiana (Oct. 17)
Ohio State is gearing up for another high-stakes season where its clash against the reigning champions, Indiana, stands out.

2. Texas

Game: vs. No. 1 Ohio State (Sept. 12)
This matchup offers Texas a golden opportunity to showcase their readiness to reclaim their status as a national contender.

3. Georgia

Game: at No. 15 Alabama (Oct. 10)
A crucial match for Georgia, as they attempt to reassert their power after recent challenges against Alabama.

4. Oregon

Game: at No. 1 Ohio State (TBD)
A pivotal game for Oregon, as they aim to prove their mettle against Ohio State.

5. Notre Dame

Game: at No. 12 BYU (Oct. 17)
This clash could be key to Notre Dame aiming for a CFP berth in 2026.

6. Texas A&M

Game: vs. No. 2 Texas (Nov. 27)
A fierce rivalry that promises to ignite passions on both sides.

7. Texas Tech

Game: at Oklahoma State (Nov. 14)
An intriguing late-season battle that could determine standings in the Big 12.

8. Indiana

Game: vs. No. 1 Ohio State (Oct. 17)
An opportunity for Indiana to validate their national title with another victory over Ohio State.

9. Michigan

Game: at No. 1 Ohio State
This enduring rivalry is always a highlight, particularly after Michigan’s recent defeat in the series.

10. Oklahoma

Game: vs. No. 2 Texas (Oct. 10)
Crucial for Oklahoma to reverse previous performances against Texas in this heated matchup.

11. USC

Game: vs. No. 4 Oregon (TBD)
A must-win game for USC to maintain their hopes for CFP participation.

12. BYU

Game: vs. No. 5 Notre Dame (Oct. 17)
An important game for BYU to raise their profile against a storied rival.

13. Miami

Game: at No. 5 Notre Dame (Nov. 7)
Another significant rivalry game that has implications beyond the regular standings.

14. LSU

Game: at No. 20 Ole Miss (Sept. 19)
A pivotal moment for LSU against a program they previously left in the dust.

15. Alabama

Game: at No. 14 LSU (Nov. 7)
This revamped rivalry might shape the SEC championship picture.

16. Louisville

Game: at No. 7 Kentucky (Nov. 28)
The end of the regular season could see both teams vying for CFP spots.

17. Missouri

Game: vs. No. 10 Oklahoma (Nov. 28)
Old rivalries get new life in conference play.

18. Utah

Game: vs. No. 12 BYU (Nov. 7)
A brightly anticipated in-state rivalry as new leadership takes charge.

19. Washington

Game: at No. 4 Oregon (TBD)
Washington seeks to end a losing streak against their major rival.

20. Ole Miss

Game: vs No. 14 LSU (Sept. 19)
A personal rivalry that has big implications for Ole Miss’s standing.

21. Houston

Game: at No. 7 Texas Tech (Sept. 19)
A statement opportunity as Houston enters its first Big 12 season.

22. Penn State

Game: at No. 9 Michigan (TBD)
Expectations rise under new leadership for Penn State.

23. SMU

Game: at No. 16 Louisville (TBD)
A significant game in a season filled with possibilities.

24. Virginia Tech

Game: at No. 13 Miami (TBD)
A test for new coach James Franklin against the Hurricanes.

25. South Carolina

Game: vs. No. 6 Texas A&M (Nov. 7)
An opportunity to assert their place among the ranked teams.