The first College Football Playoff rankings of the 2026 season were released on November 3, placing the Miami Hurricanes at the top spot. The Alabama Crimson Tide appeared at No. 5, while the Notre Dame Fighting Irish landed at No. 11, a placement that drew widespread surprise from observers.
The rankings, determined by the CFP selection committee, set the initial postseason picture for college football. The Associated Press reported the release, with Eddie Pells covering the announcement.
