Week 9 of the 2026 college football season delivered another weekend of chaos, with unranked USC upsetting No. 2 Ohio State, reigning champion Indiana surviving in overtime, and top-ranked Miami nearly falling to North Carolina. As the dust settles, the Week 10 rankings reflect a season defined by parity.
Top of the Rankings
Miami Hurricanes (8-0) remain No. 1 despite defensive concerns, having allowed over 1,200 yards and 93 points in their last three games. Georgia Bulldogs (2) hold at No. 2 after a defensive-driven win over Florida. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (4) rise to No. 3 following a second-half shutout of Navy, though slow starts remain a concern ahead of a showdown with Miami.
Biggest Movers
Utah Utes (9) jump to No. 4 after avoiding a letdown at Cincinnati, showcasing quarterback Devon Dampier's impact. Indiana Hoosiers (7) sit at No. 5 after a quarterback change and a 60-yard field goal by Paddy McAteer forced overtime against Minnesota. UCLA Bruins (7) stay undefeated at No. 6 behind a dominant defense with three first-half interceptions.
Other Notable Teams
Kentucky Wildcats (7-1) enter the top 10 at No. 7 behind a rushing attack averaging 4.6 yards per carry. BYU Cougars (7-1) at No. 8 await the potential return of running back LJ Martin. Texas Longhorns (6-2) climb to No. 9 despite a growing injury list, led by Arch Manning. Ole Miss Rebels (6-2) round out the top 10 after Shekai Mills-Knight's breakout performance.
Playoff Contenders and Surprises
Wake Forest Demon Deacons (7-1) sit at No. 11 with five straight wins. Ohio State Buckeyes (6-2) plummet to No. 12 amid quarterback Luke Fahey's struggles. Texas Tech Red Raiders (19) surge to No. 13 after a quarterback change to Thomas Castellanos sparked a 34-26 win over Arizona. LSU Tigers (6-2) and Alabama Crimson Tide (6-2) sit at Nos. 14 and 15 ahead of their Week 10 matchup.
Rankings 16-25
Tennessee Volunteers (15) at No. 16 face a must-win against Kentucky. USC Trojans (7-2) enter at No. 17 after their statement win. Boise State Broncos (17), Houston Cougars (18), Missouri Tigers (22), Iowa Hawkeyes (unranked), Oregon State Beavers (unranked), Arizona Wildcats (21), New Mexico Lobos (unranked), and UTSA Roadrunners (unranked) fill out the top 25.
