College football top to bottom: The 2022 preseason 1-131 rankings
OK, after an offseason filled with more conference realignment, NIL deals and talk about the transfer portal, the 2022 season finally kicks off Saturday. That makes it time for the On3 preseason 1-131 rankings.
One team has been added to the FBS ranks this season; perennial FCS power James Madison has moved up and joined the Sun Belt, further strengthening a league that also added three other members.
The teams at the top aren’t going to surprise anyone. But those familiar names are at the top for a reason: They are supremely talented, have excellent depth and are well-coached.
Enough with the introduction: Here are the preseason 1-131 rankings.
The top 25
1. Alabama (Last season: 13-2)
The buzz: Nick Saban had the best roster in the nation, but still dipped into the transfer portal to bring in five guys who are expected to play big roles – most notably RB Jahmyr Gibbs and WR Jermaine Burton. Heisman-winning QB Bryce Young returns and again will put up huge numbers. And this season’s defense should be noticeably better than last season’s, especially in the secondary. OLB Will Anderson, who might be the nation’s best player, is the headliner on that side of the ball.
2. Ohio State (Last season: 11-2)
The buzz: QB C.J. Stroud, RB TreVeyon Henderson and WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba will vie for All-America honors, and they’ll play with an offensive line that is one of the best in the nation. In short, the offense will be tremendous. New coordinator Jim Knowles should fix most of what has ailed the defense the past two seasons; there certainly is good talent on that side of the ball, though linebacker is a concern.
3. Georgia (Last season: 14-1)
The buzz: No one can say “1980” to the Bulldogs anymore. While this defense won’t be as talented as last season’s generational unit, this remains a defense-first team. DL Jalen Carter is a huge talent and will lead what will be a stout group. While the offensive line could have three new starters, the offense again figures to be extremely efficient. TE Brock Bowers is one of the best players in the nation, and though QB Stetson Bennett certainly has his detractors, he also has a national title ring.
4. Clemson (Last season: 10-3)
The buzz: The defense will be excellent again, and the front four should absolutely wreak havoc. The offense, though, is a huge question, which may make this ranking look bad at the end of the season. There is a good group of running backs. But QB D.J. Uiagalelei looked overmatched for much of last season, the offensive line needs to develop consistency and the receivers really haven’t done much. Ultimately, though, Uiagalelei is the key to the season. Back-to-back games against Wake Forest and NC State should determine whether the Tigers win the ACC Coastal Division title. Clemson has more talent than anybody on its schedule.
5. Texas A&M (Last season: 8-4)
The buzz: The Aggies have an extremely talented roster, but there are questions at quarterback and wide receiver. The secondary should be tremendous, but there will be an all-new starting line on defense (there is a ton of talent there, though) and no linebacker truly stands out. In addition, the Aggies can’t ease into the season because of a tough September schedule. Still, fewer than 10 wins would be a big disappointment.
6. Michigan (Last season: 12-2)
The buzz: The Wolverines were a big surprise last season, winning the Big Ten for the first time since sharing the title in 2004 and advancing to the College Football Playoff. The defense led the way last season, but eight fulltime starters (and coordinator Mike Macdonald) are gone. The offense, then, needs to do more this season, and it should be able to. The rushing attack may actually be better than it was last season, and the passing attack certainly should improve. And while the defense will have a bunch of new starters, it still should be a strong group.
7. NC State (Last season: 9-3)
The buzz: The Wolfpack haven’t won an ACC title since 1979, when it was a seven-team league. The title is there for the taking this season, thanks to the return of QB Devin Leary, a top-notch linebacker group and questions with the other top league contenders. The defense as a whole should be quite good. The biggest concern on offense is the rushing attack, which too often was stymied last season. In addition, the Wolfpack will be the hunted this season; how will NC State handle the expectations? NCSU has won double-digit games once in its history, in 2002 with Philip Rivers at quarterback.
8. Oklahoma State (Last season: 12-2)
The buzz: The Cowboys won with defense last season. But six starters and coordinator Jim Knowles are gone; while the line should be quite good, a rebuilt secondary has a lot to prove. The offense needs to do more this season, which means QB Spencer Sanders has to be a much more consistent passer. The first conference game is October 1 at Baylor; the Cowboys also have to play at Kansas State and Oklahoma.
9. Notre Dame (Last season: 11-2)
The buzz: Brian Kelly is the winningest coach in school history and replacement Marcus Freeman is a first-time head coach (and at a school that gets as much media attention as any). Yet no one really seems to be worried that the Irish will falter. Tyler Buchner is the new starting quarterback, and he will operate behind one of the best lines in the nation and TE Michael Mayer makes for a heck of a security blanket in the passing game. The secondary, which was picked on at times last season, is the only defensive concern.
10. Utah (Last season: 10-4)
The buzz: Expectations are sky-high as the Utes try to repeat as Pac-12 champs. QB Cameron Rising and RB Tavion Thomas headline the offense, which features wide receivers who won’t scare anyone. The defense needs transfers to come through at each level; regardless, it will be the most physical unit in the league. The opener at Florida is huge for the Utes – and for the Pac-12 as a whole.
11. USC (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: Lincoln Riley remade the roster, thanks to the transfer portal, and it’s not really a stretch to think USC – even with its defensive issues – can win the Pac-12 this season. The offense is going to be prolific with QB Caleb Williams and WR Jordan Addison. A lack of toughness on defense has been an issue; how soon can that be changed? One positive: The schedule isn’t that difficult.
12. Oklahoma (Last season: 11-2)
The buzz: UCF transfer Dillon Gabriel should be a great fit at quarterback, and there is good surrounding skill-position talent. There are just three returning defensive starters, but there is talent and a solid group of transfers. Plus, new coach Brent Venables knows what he’s doing on that side of the ball.
13. Arkansas (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: The Razorbacks outperformed expectations last season, but they won’t sneak up on anyone this season. Dual-threat QB K.J. Jefferson is the offensive headliner, and he needs some receivers to step up. The Hogs run a 4-2-5 set, and there are zero fulltime returning starters in the front six, though there is a lot of experience in that group (most notably LB Bumper Pool). Alabama transfer Drew Sanders should make a big splash at linebacker. Keep an eye on the play of the corners, which could be a concern. The nonconference schedule includes Cincinnati and BYU.
14. Oregon (Last season: 10-4)
The buzz: New coach Dan Lanning should help a mediocre defense get a lot better, and the linebacker group should be dominant. But quarterback questions could hamper the season. A go-to receiver needs to emerge, too.
15. Baylor (Last season: 12-2)
The buzz: The Bears rode a strong rushing attack and a stout defense to a Big 12 title last season. While a lot of key players are gone – most notably, 1,600-yard rusher Abram Smith – the Bears should be in the Big 12 title chase again. The offensive line is a good one, and the Bears’ defensive line will be one of the best in the nation. Playmakers need to emerge on both sides of the ball, though.
16. Penn State (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: How good can the Nittany Lions be? It’s all about the rushing attack, which means the o-line must play a lot better than it has the past few seasons. QB Sean Clifford is solid, there are good receivers and the defense should be stout.
17. Wake Forest (Last season: 11-3)
The buzz: The unknown status of star QB Sam Hartman makes it tough to handicap Wake. With a healthy Hartman, an experienced Wake squad could win the ACC. Without him? It’ll be tough to finish third in the Atlantic Division. Regardless, the defense has to improve vs. the run.
18. Miami (Last season: 7-5)
The buzz: New coach Mario Cristobal takes over a team with burgeoning star Tyler Van Dyke at quarterback. The receiving corps as a whole is untested, but Van Dyke should make them all better. Cristobal did a good job in the transfer portal in transforming his defense; as many as seven transfers could play key roles on that side of the ball. The schedule isn’t overly difficult, either. Miami has played in the ACC title game just once in its 18 seasons in the league; this could be the second time.
19. Wisconsin (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: Only three starters return off what was one of the nation’s best defenses. But that side of the ball will be fine. The offense remains the problem. RB Braelon Allen is a stud, but at some point, you have to actually be able to effectively throw the ball when you’re playing high-level opponents.
20. Kentucky (Last season: 10-3)
The buzz: UK is coming off just the fourth 10-win season in its history, and there are high expectations. QB Will Levis is being touted as a potential first-round pick, there is an excellent group of linebackers and RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. is a stud. But Rodriguez is expected to miss the first month of the season because of a suspension, there is no proven go-to receiver, there’s an all-new defensive line and the first two SEC games (Florida and Ole Miss) are on the road.
21. UCF (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: The Knights won nine games last season with a true freshman quarterback who was expected to redshirt instead starting nine times. And that quarterback wasn’t really a good fit for coach Gus Malzahn’s offense. Ole Miss transfer John Rhys Plumlee, who had been moved to receiver with the Rebels, will start at quarterback for UCF, and his running ability is a good fit for Malzahn. If a rebuilt linebacker group comes together, the Knights can (will?) win the AAC.
22. Houston (Last season: 12-2)
The buzz: Losing star RB Alton McCaskill to a season-ending injury in spring ball is huge, but the Cougars’ passing attack should be quite good. So, too, should the Cougars’ defense. The defensive front has a ton of potential, and S Gervarrius Owens is a good one. Plus, in league play, the Cougars miss UCF and Cincinnati.
23. Michigan State (Last season: 11-2)
The buzz: The Spartans were one of the nation’s biggest surprises last season. Coach Mel Tucker again made good use of the transfer portal, and while another 11-win season is unlikely, the Spartans definitely have top-25 talent.
24. Ole Miss (Last season: 10-3)
The buzz: The Rebels lost their top four rushers, including star QB Matt Corral, and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby left for Oklahoma. And the defense has to get a lot better against the run. But the early schedule is a breeze – a 7-1 or even 8-0 start is possible – so things have time to jell before a monster closing stretch (Texas A&M, Alabama, Arkansas and Mississippi State).
25. BYU (Last season: 10-3)
The buzz: The Cougars have a chance for a big season in their last year as an independent. QB Jaren Hall heads an experienced offense, though Cal transfer Christopher Brooks needs to produce at running back. Eight starters are back on defense. But the schedule features games against Baylor, Oregon, Notre Dame, Arkansas and Boise State (which beat BYU last season).
Teams 26-50
26. Cincinnati (Last season: 13-1)
The buzz: After a season for the ages for the Bearcats, expect them to take a step back this season because of the loss of numerous star players. The biggest positives: There is a good coaching staff and all five offensive line starters are back. And outside of the opener at Arkansas and road games against UCF and SMU, the schedule is easily navigable.
27. Pitt (Last season: 11-3)
The buzz: QB Kenny Pickett and WR Jordan Addison are gone, and Pitt figures to rely more heavily on the run this season. Pitt is strong along both lines; its defensive front is one of the best in the nation. The back seven on defense is a bit concerning, which is why expecting the Panthers to repeat as ACC champs is too much to ask.
28. Tennessee (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: With QB Hendon Hooker at the controls, the offense again should be an explosive unit. But the defense was a sieve last season. While you figure on some improvement because it’s the second year in the scheme, you also wonder about the overall talent level of the unit.
29. UCLA (Last season: 8-4)
The buzz: QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson and RB Zach Charbonnet are a big-time 1-2 punch in the backfield, and the early schedule is embarrassingly easy. Defensively, three or four transfers – most notably LB Darius Muasau from Hawaii – must come through if the Bruins are to reach their potential.
30. Minnesota (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: The Gophers had a national top-10 defense last season, and it will be stout again. The re-hiring of coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca should help the offense, which was embarrassingly one-dimensional (way too reliant on the ground game) last season.
31. Texas (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: While RB Bijan Robinson is a stud, losing transfer WR Isaiah Neyor to a season-ending injury was a big blow and the quarterback situation bears watching. Defensively, even modest improvement will get the Longhorns to a bowl. Getting to a bowl is a low bar, but, hey, it would be progress after last season.
32. Florida (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: New coach Billy Napier has some good pieces on offense – as long as QB Anthony Richardson stays healthy. Defensively, the Gators should be fine at the second and third levels, but the lack of proven talent along the defensive line is alarming.
33. Kansas State (Last season: 8-5)
The buzz: RB Deuce Vaughn is a stud, and K-State should be solid defensively. Ultimately, though, the season comes down to the consistency of QB Adrian Martinez – and consistency certainly was not his forte at Nebraska.
34. Iowa (Last season: 10-4)
The buzz: The Hawkeyes opened 6-0 last season before their lack of offense caught up to them. They win with defense, and that side of the ball will be strong again thanks to the presence of guys like LB Jack Campbell and CB Riley Moss. But the offense will be a typical Iowa offense and that limits the Hawkeyes’ ceiling.
35. Purdue (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: QB Aidan O’Connell returns, which means the offense is in good shape despite having to break in some new receivers. The run defense has to improve, but the secondary looks good. One bad part about the schedule: The Boilermakers play at Big Ten West rivals Minnesota and Wisconsin, teams they lost to at home last season.
36. LSU (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: There is a solid baseline of talent, but there also are numerous questions, with the rushing attack the biggest. The defensive line should be fearsome, and while transfers must come through in the secondary, at least they’re experienced transfers.
37. Mississippi State (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: QB Will Rogers knows how to operate Mike Leach’s offense and should flirt with a 75 percent completion rate. The front seven on defense will be good, but the secondary is a question mark. The October schedule is brutal: Texas A&M, Arkansas, Kentucky and Alabama.
38. Fresno State (Last season: 10-3)
The buzz: Jeff Tedford returns for his second go-round as Bulldogs coach, and he takes over a team that should have one of the best passing attacks in the nation. The defense looks stout, too, which makes Fresno the Mountain West favorite.
39. Appalachian State (Last season: 10-4)
The buzz: Two potential 1,000-yard rushers mean the Mountaineers are the team to beat in the Sun Belt. They open with back-to-back games against North Carolina and Texas A&M, giving them a chance to make big-time early-season noise.
40. Boise State (Last season: 7-5)
The buzz: If the Broncos can revive a dormant rushing attack (just 120.4 yards per game last season), they can win the Mountain West. There are few concerns about the defense, and the secondary should be outstanding.
41. Coastal Carolina (Last season: 11-2)
The buzz: QB Grayson McCall will put up big numbers in a highly entertaining offense. And it’s not a stretch to think the Chanticleers will be 8-0 when they welcome in App State on November 3.
42. Oregon State (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: A share-the-wealth approach at running back seems likely, and the backs will run behind a good line. The defense should be OK, though nothing great. The biggest question is the passing attack. It wasn’t that good last season, and a go-to receiver must emerge.
43. South Carolina (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: So much depends on QB Spencer Rattler, a transfer from Oklahoma. If he lives up to the hype, the Gamecocks could finish second in the SEC East. It also would help if the Gamecocks improved their horrendous run defense; they allowed 4.69 yards per carry last season, which was 102nd nationally.
44. Louisville (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: Dual-threat QB Malik Cunningham heads what should be a good offense, especially if some young receivers come through. But defensive improvement is a must if the Cardinals have any hope of finishing in the top four in the ACC Atlantic Division.
45. Boston College (Last season: 6-6)
The buzz: A full season from QB Phil Jurkovec certainly would help; he can be a difference-maker at quarterback. Another thing that would help is an improved run defense; BC was gashed often up front in 2021.
46. Iowa State (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The Cyclones were in the preseason top 10 last season, but started 2-2 and never really righted themselves. Expectations are much more modest this season. The offense has a chance to be solid, but there are a lot of questions about the defense.
47. Florida State (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: The Seminoles have had four consecutive losing seasons (the first time that has happened since 1973-76), but there are reasons to think that streak will be snapped. QB Jordan Travis is a dangerous runner but must show improvement as a passer. There are high hopes for EDGE Jared Verse, a transfer from FCS Albany.
48. Maryland (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: QB Taulia Tagovailoa will be at the controls of what should be a prolific passing attack. But defensive questions and a tough schedule (the usual Big East opponents, plus crossover games against Purdue and Wisconsin) will make it tough to surpass last season’s win total. The Terps haven’t had back-to-back winning seasons since 2013-14.
49. Auburn (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: After a soap-operaesque offseason, Bryan Harsin is back for his second season with the Tigers. His defense will be good. His offense? Well, there are good running backs and a solid line. But the quarterbacks and receivers are huge questions.
50. Washington (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: New coach Kalen DeBoer and his staff will improve the offense (that is not a high bar). The run defense was horrible last season, and even moderate improvement in that facet should be enough to get the Huskies to a bowl.
Teams 51-75
51. San Diego State (Last season: 12-2)
The buzz: As usual, the defense will be quite salty. But a rebuilt offense is a mystery. QB Braxton Burmeister, a transfer from Virginia Tech, has a lot on his shoulders.
52. North Carolina (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: The post-Sam Howell era begins for the Tar Heels, who were a massive disappointment last season. The defense, especially the secondary, looks to have the necessary pieces to be at least decent. And while WR Josh Downs is a legit star, questions abound on offense.
53. Air Force (Last season: 10-3)
The buzz: The Falcons bludgeoned opponents with their rushing attack last season, when their defense was excellent. The offense returns nine starters, but the defense lost coordinator John Rudzinski (to Virginia) and the secondary must be rebuilt.
54. TCU (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: New coach Sonny Dykes should have the offense in a good place. But the Horned Frogs were awful on defense last season, and any hope for a bowl depends on that side of the ball getting noticeably better.
55. Washington State (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The hope is that a pass-happy offense guided by QB Cameron Ward, a transfer from FCS Incarnate Word, puts the Cougars in position to go bowling again. A rebuilt offensive line is a concern, though. The defensive line, on the other hand, will be one of the best on the West Coast.
56. West Virginia (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: Coach Neal Brown is feeling the heat, and new OC Graham Harrell and new QB J.T. Daniels are supposed to help remove some of that heat. WVU runs a 3-3-5 defense, and the front six should be quite good. The secondary? That’s a huge question.
57. Nebraska (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: Welcome to A.) the Scott Frost farewell tour or B.) the Scott Frost redemption tour. Eight losses last season were by one score; the one that wasn’t was by nine points to Ohio State. Can the Huskers – with a new quarterback, a revamped offensive staff and a rebuilt defensive line – learn how to win the close ones?
58. Louisiana (Last season: 13-1)
The buzz: The Ragin’ Cajuns lost coach Billy Napier to Florida and a handful of key performers to graduation and the transfer portal. An easy early-season schedule should help them ease into the season, but repeating as Sun Belt champs seems too tough a task.
59. Texas Tech (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The schedule is front-loaded, which isn’t great for a team with a new coach. The Red Raiders figure to throw, throw and throw some more, but are the pieces in place to do that consistently enough?
60. UTSA (Last season: 12-2)
The buzz: The defending Conference USA champs again will have a strong offense. But there are some concerns about the defense. And the Roadrunners open the season with consecutive games against Houston, Army and Texas.
61. Virginia Tech (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: New coach Brent Pry needs to re-energize the entire program, which slipped a few rungs on the ACC ladder under predecessor Justin Fuente. The back seven on defense looks OK, but the line is a problem. Offensively, the problem is there are no proven playmakers. Transfer QB Grant Wells, from Marshall, should help rev up what has become an embarrassing passing attack.
62. Stanford (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: The Cardinal won double-digit games six times from 2010-16, then won nine games in 2017 and ’18. But Stanford has stumbled of late because it no longer can line up and simply overpower opponents. The offense has nine starters back and has potential because of QB Tanner McKee. But unless an all-new defensive front is better than expected, a bowl bid might be out of reach.
63. Virginia (Last season: 6-6)
The buzz: New coach Tony Elliott takes over a team with a high-powered passing attack, thanks to the return of 4,449-yard passer Brennan Armstrong. But an all-new line and unproven backs mean there will be a ton of pressure on Armstrong. The defense was atrocious last season, so new coordinator John Rudzinski has a lot of work to do.
64. East Carolina (Last season: 7-5)
The buzz: ECU is on the rise in the AAC. QB Holton Ahlers and RB Keaton Mitchell are offensive standouts, and if the Pirates get better vs. the run, watch out. Other than the opener against NC State (at home!), the schedule is back-loaded, with consecutive games against UCF, BYU, Cincinnati and Houston in late October/early November.
65. Missouri (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: Another new defensive coordinator (Blake Baker is the third in coach Eli Drinkwitz’s three seasons) is tasked with turning around a bad unit. But there are offensive questions, too, though there are some intriguing pieces (like five-star true freshman WR Luther Burden).
66. SMU (Last season: 8-4)
The buzz: QB Tanner Mordecai returns after throwing 39 TD passes last season, but there’s a new coach; Rhett Lashlee was hired after Sonny Dykes went to TCU. New coordinator Scott Symons has a lot of work to do on defense, specifically with the secondary.
67. Arizona State (Last season: 8-5)
The buzz: The Sun Devils are team turmoil. There’s an NCAA investigation, two new coordinators, a coach whose job status is discussed daily and a net loss from what was gained and lost in the transfer portal. A lot of new faces (who aren’t better than the ones they’re replacing, by the way) have to come together quick. That will be tough, considering the Sun Devils face Oklahoma State, Utah and USC in the first five weeks of the season.
68. UAB (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: Coach Bill Clark stepped down in late June, and offensive coordinator Bryant Vincent will be the interim. Vincent takes over a strong Conference USA title contender that has one question – will a rebuilt defensive line play well?
69. Toledo (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The Rockets haven’t won the MAC title since 2017, and they underachieved relative to their talent level last season. They have the best offense-defense combination in the league, and there is experience up and down the roster. The first three league games (in the first three weeks of October) are gigantic: Central Michigan, Northern Illinois and Kent State
70. Utah State (Last season: 11-3)
The buzz: The Aggies had a remarkable one-season turnaround under new coach Blake Anderson – from one win in 2020 to 11 last season – and if the front seven on defense can be rebuilt quick, the Aggies can repeat as Mountain West champs.
71. Indiana (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: Injuries crippled the Hoosiers last year, turning what was supposed to be a top-25 season into a disaster. New offensive coordinator Walt Bell, who was fired as coach at UMass, has to find some playmakers fast. The secondary is the best unit on the team.
72. Illinois (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: The Illini were better than expected last season, Bret Bielema’s first, and four of the losses came in one-score games. The defense should be fine, but new QB Tommy DeVito – a transfer from Syracuse – needs to be an effective passer to take pressure off 1,000-yard rusher Chase Brown.
73. Northwestern (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: If the Wildcats can find a consistent quarterback, the offense has some potential because of good running backs and a solid line. But that won’t matter unless a defensive line that was overmatched last season toughens up.
74. California (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: While just four starters return, the defense still figures to be solid. But what has been a boring offense has to change its ways if the Golden Bears want to get to a bowl.
75. Rutgers (Last season: 5-8)
The buzz: The offense has a lot of room for improvement. And being in the Big Ten East, as well as crossover games against Iowa and Minnesota, is going to make it tough for the Scarlet Knights to get to a bowl.
Teams 76-100
76. Northern Illinois (Last season: 9-5)
The buzz: NIU won the MAC last season and is in good shape to repeat. There’s an experienced defense that figures to improve. Offensively, the passing attack needs to become more consistent.
77. Georgia State (Last season: 8-5)
The buzz: Looking for a dark-horse contender in the Sun Belt? The Panthers pulverize opponents with their rushing attack, but need a rebuilt defensive front to come through.
78. Liberty (Last season: 8-5)
The buzz: The departure of star QB Malik Willis means a lot of questions offensively. And the departure of coordinator Scott Symons and the return of just four starters mean a lot of questions on defense, too. The schedule isn’t that taxing, though.
79. Tulane (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: The offense has some interesting pieces, including QB Michael Pratt and RB Tyjae Spears, but the defense has to get a lot better after allowing 34.0 points per game last season.
80. Arizona (Last season: 1-11)
The buzz: Good work in the transfer portal and on the recruiting trail means the Wildcats’ offense should make big strides this season. But a difficult schedule means wins could be tough to come by. Still, the program appears to be on the rise.
81. Syracuse (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: The Orange was all about the run last season, thanks to 1,496-yard rusher Sean Tucker. But the new OC is Robert Anae, who was at pass-happy Virginia last season. You wonder if there is a quarterback on the roster who can win games in the ACC. The defense, on the other hand, should be one of the best in the league again.
82. Army (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: The Black Knights have won at least nine games in four of the past five seasons, and feature one of the nation’s top pass rushers in Andre Carter II. The schedule is front-loaded, which might make it tough for an offense that has a reshuffled backfield.
83. UTEP (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The Miners rode a strong defense to a winning record in 2021. But they need to buck some history this season: UTEP hasn’t had back-to-back winning records since 2004-05.
84. Kent State (Last season: 7-7)
The buzz: Coach Sean Lewis’ offense will produce. But for the Golden Flashes to win the MAC, the defense must go from “atrocious” to at least “mediocre.” New DC Jeremiah Johnson did good work at FCS Northern Iowa; let’s see how it works out with Kent State. The early-season schedule – road games against Washington, Oklahoma and Georgia – is incredibly difficult.
85. Central Michigan (Last season: 9-4)
The buzz: Lew Nichols III returns after leading the nation in rushing last season; QB Daniel Richardson, who threw 24 TD passes in his first season as the starter, also returns. But the defense looks to have a lot of holes.
86. Memphis (Last season: 6-6)
The buzz: The Tigers have new coordinators on both sides of the ball. There look to be more problems on defense – which will have a rebuilt front seven – than on offense.
87. Colorado (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: The transfer portal was not kind to the Buffs, and a tough September schedule could mean an 0-4 start. A general lack of talent means it would be tough to rebound from that.
88. FAU (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: The Owls were a disappointment last season. But the pieces are there for Willie Taggart’s team to contend for the Conference USA title.
89. South Alabama (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: The Jaguars will have a tough defense. But questions remain about an anemic offense. The Jags are in the easier division in the Sun Belt, and that will help.
90. Miami (Ohio) (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: QB Brett Gabbert (Blaine’s brother) heads what should be a good offense, especially if the rushing attack improves. Miami could use a little bit of luck, too: Its three MAC losses last season came by a combined four points.
91. North Texas (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: The Mean Green won their final five regular-season games, thanks to a bruising rushing attack. Still, UNT has had three consecutive losing seasons, and the heat is on coach Seth Littrell.
92. Marshall (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The Thundering Herd were one of the best programs in Conference USA. How will they fare in their new digs in the Sun Belt, especially with the status of star RB Rasheen Ali an unknown?
93. San Jose State (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: The Spartans surprisingly won the Mountain West in 2020, then took a big step back last season. The defense should be fine, but the offense needs QB Chevan Cordeiro, who transferred from Hawaii, to come through in a big way.
94. Colorado State (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: New coach Jay Norvell arrives from Mountain West foe Nevada, and he brings a high-powered pass offense with him. If inexperienced QB Clay Millen – who came with Norvell – comes through, the Rams can go bowling.
95. Tulsa (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: There is a good group of running backs, and they head what should be a solid offense. Defense is a question, though; just three starters return. One thing: Four of the six losses last season came to teams that finished in the top 25, including three against top-10 teams.
96. Western Kentucky (Last season: 9-5)
The buzz: Ultra-productive QB Bailey Zappe is gone, as are OC Zach Kittley, the nation’s leading receiver and four starters who left via the transfer portal (all to Power 5 teams). New QB Austin Reed, a transfer from Division II West Florida, is the key to the season.
97. Vanderbilt (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: Vandy was 0-8 in the SEC last season, with the losses by an average of 26.0 points per game. There are reasons to think the defense can be better this season, but the offense lacks anyone who scares an opponent and that is a huge problem.
98. USF (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: Coach Jeff Scott has won just three games in his two seasons. But transfer QB Gerry Bohanon, who led Baylor to the Big 12 title last season, lends hope of actual consistency at quarterback, something USF hasn’t had in a while. If a rebuilt defensive line comes through, the Bulls could sniff .500.
99. Western Michigan (Last season: 8-5)
The buzz: The Broncos have just four starters back on offense, but one of those is 1,000-yard rusher Sean Tyler. WMU should be fine defensively.
100. Old Dominion (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: The Monarchs figure to put a ton of points on the board. But their defense struggled in Conference USA and now will face better teams in the Sun Belt.
The bottom 31
101. Navy (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: Navy’s triple-option offense will have three new starters in the backfield and also along the line. That puts a ton of pressure on QB Tai Lavatai. The schedule is back-loaded, which could help all the new starters ease into the season.
102. Kansas (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: The Jayhawks haven’t had a winning record since 2008 and have won 18 games in the past 10 seasons. But they showed some signs of life last season, thanks to QB Jalon Daniels. KU has won four Big 12 games total in the past seven seasons; if everything goes right, it could win two this season.
103. Georgia Tech (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: Fourth-year coach Geoff Collins is squarely on the hot seat, and the September schedule (Clemson, Ole Miss and UCF) looks way too difficult for a team with just four returning starters. There’s a nice group of linebackers. Other than that … .
104. Wyoming (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The Cowboys lost some key players to the transfer portal, but the staff also brought in a lot of portal reinforcements. Just five starters return.
105. Bowling Green (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: The defense should be good by MAC standards. The offense returns nine starters, but that unit was bad last season. Playing two Power 5 teams on the road in the first four weeks won’t help.
106. Duke (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: New coach Mike Elko had been defensive coordinator at Texas A&M. Duke’s defense was rancid last season; any improvement must start on that side of the ball. Duke is in the Coastal, which is the weakest of the ACC’s two divisions, but the Blue Devils look like the worst team in the division.
107. Troy (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: New coach Jon Sumrall, a defense-minded guy, has to like what he has on defense. Alas, the offense (and a tough early schedule) could make his initial season a difficult one.
108. Eastern Michigan (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: The offense will be fine if a new quarterback comes through. But the defense figures to be a season-long issue.
109. James Madison (Last season: 12-2)
The buzz: The Dukes make the move from the FCS ranks to the Sun Belt. But they return just nine starters from last season’s playoff team.
110. Charlotte (Last season: 5-7)
The buzz: The offense has some talent, including QB Chris Reynolds, who is starting for a fifth season. But the defense was horrible last season; how much can it improve?
111. Ball State (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: The Cardinals won the MAC in 2020, then underachieved last season. They could surprise this season if they get consistent play from a new starting quarterback and the defense toughens up a bit against the run.
112. Middle Tennessee State (Last season: 7-6)
The buzz: Coach Rick Stockstill is headed into his 17th season with the Blue Raiders; that’s tied (with Northwestern’s Pat Fitzgerald) for the fourth-longest tenure currently. Stockstill has some work to do with his offense, which returns just two starters.
113. Southern Miss (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: The Golden Eagles still are trying to regain their footing, and that will be more difficult as they move from Conference USA to the Sun Belt. Because of injuries at quarterback, the offense was a disaster area last season. But there are some talented skill-position guys, like RB Frank Gore Jr.
114. Ohio U. (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: Ohio hasn’t had back-to-back losing seasons since 2004-05. Unless some skill guys emerge to help QB Kurtis Rourke, another losing season beckons.
115. Temple (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: Rod Carey was fired at the end of his third season, and Stan Drayton is the new coach. Improving a moribund offense is the key, but the pieces don’t appear to be there this season.
116. Arkansas State (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: Butch Jones’ first season with the Red Wolves was eminently forgettable, thanks to a defense that too often resembled a sieve. How much better can they be this season?
117. UNLV (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: UNLV needs to find a consistent quarterback and go from there. The program has had just two winning records this century – and one of those was in 2000.
118. Louisiana Tech (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: New coach Sonny Cumbie arrives from Texas Tech, but faces what looks like a long season. The defense needs an overhaul, and the schedule is daunting early.
119. Georgia Southern (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: Clay Helton goes from L.A. to Statesboro, Ga. Culture shock, for sure. The Eagles, like the Trojans last season, figure to finish with a losing record.
120. Nevada (Last season: 8-5)
The buzz: Thanks to graduations and transfer portal losses, the roster was decimated – to the point that the Wolf Pack have just six returning starters. The defense has some things to like, but the offense is starting over.
121. Rice (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: The Owls have had seven consecutive losing seasons and have finished below .500 16 times in the past 22 seasons. The early-season schedule is brutal, with USC, Houston, Louisiana and UAB.
122. Buffalo (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: The Bulls need a lot of newcomers (portal additions and JC transfers) to come through. There are some interesting skill-position pieces on offense, but the line has just one returning starter.
123. New Mexico (Last season: 3-9)
The buzz: There are some things to like defensively (coordinator Rocky Long is a master), but the offense needs vast improvement.
124. ULM (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: Second-year coach Terry Bowden had to replace both coordinators, and faces a schedule that includes games against Texas, Alabama, Army and the three best teams in the Sun Belt (App State, Coastal Carolina and archrival Louisiana).
125. Akron (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: New coach Joe Moorhead’s hiring was a coup of sorts. The Zips have won just three games in the past three seasons, and getting to three this season alone is a legit goal.
126. Texas State (Last season: 4-8)
The buzz: The Bobcats haven’t had a winning record since 2014. That streak figures to grow this season.
127. UConn (Last season: 1-11)
The buzz: New coach Jim Mora takes over one of the ultimate fixer-uppers. The Huskies have won 10 games in their past five seasons (not counting 2020, when they didn’t play).
128. FIU (Last season: 1-11)
The buzz: The Panthers enter the season with a new coaching staff, an 11-game losing streak and just four returning starters. Enjoy your first season, coach Mike MacIntyre.
129. Hawaii (Last season: 6-7)
The buzz: New coach Timmy Chang, a Hawaii native, is one of the most popular players in school history. But he takes over after a nasty – and very public – divorce from Todd Graham. (Hey, when the state legislature holds hearings about your football team … .) The program is not in a good place right now, but at least Chang knows the lay of the land. Immediate improvement is expecting too much, though.
130. New Mexico State (Last season: 2-10)
The buzz: Pity poor Jerry Kill. He takes over a program that has had two winning seasons this century and only five since 1970. The Aggies haven’t won more than seven games in a season since 1965 and have won eight games total in the past four seasons. Kill has just nine returning starters, too, after some key players transferred.
131. UMass (Last season: 1-11)
The buzz: New coach Don Brown has won at UMass before, including a title-game appearance in 2006 as an FCS program. But since UMass moved to the FBS ranks in 2012, it has won 20 games. That’s 20 wins in 10 seasons. His first season back won’t change things.