Steve Makinen releases 2026 College Football Stability System and Iowa race simulations

Steve Makinen has updated his College Football Stability System for the 2026 season, highlighting a period of significant roster and coaching turnover. The system emphasizes the importance of continuity, noting that 25.4% of FBS programs feature new head coaches this year. Historical data suggests that teams returning 17 or more starters have gone 55.7% against the spread (ATS) in the first four weeks over the last five seasons. Currently, only four teams—Arizona State, Houston, Notre Dame, and Texas A&M—meet this threshold.

For Week 0 on August 29, the system identifies Hawaii (-3.5) at Stanford and UNLV (-3.5) against Memphis as potential plays.

In racing news, Team Penske leads Steve Makinen's final simulation for the Iowa race. Ryan Blaney is the heavy favorite, followed by teammate Joey Logano. Other simulated top performers include Ty Gibbs, William Byron, and Kyle Larson.