ESPN releases 2026 college football FPI rankings, Ohio State tops list

ESPN FPI rankings 2026 college football Ohio State Colorado Buffaloes Penn State

ESPN released its first Football Power Index (FPI) rankings for the 2026 college football season. The rankings place Ohio State at #1 nationally, with defending champion Indiana at #6. Analysts highlighted Penn State as potentially over‑ranked at #17 and Miami (FL) as under‑ranked, noting recent coaching changes and roster upgrades.

Colorado's Buffaloes received a 4.5 FPI rating, ranking them 10th in the Big 12 and 45th overall in the country after a 3‑9 campaign in 2025. Coach Deion Sanders, who took over in 2023, is banking on 43 incoming transfers and staff changes to lift the program, though oddsmakers view the team as a long‑shot for the conference title.

Sources

Where Clemson Stands In Initial ESPN FPI [www.theclemsoninsider.com]

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Who is ranked too low, too high on first college football ESPN FPI? [www.thebiglead.com]

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Where Baylor Lands in in ESPN’s Latest Football Power Index rankings [www.si.com]

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