College football winners and losers: How we think the initial College Football Playoff rankings will look after Week 9

November 1, 2026

As the College Football Playoff rankings make their debut after Week 9, Boise State (6-1) stands as the highest-ranked Group of Five team, poised to secure its second playoff berth in three years. The Broncos’ path to the CFP appears clear, though Oregon State remains their most formidable challenger in the Mountain West.

Meanwhile, Ole Miss (6-2) and Texas (6-2) occupy the 11th and 12th spots, respectively, with Texas edging ahead thanks to a head-to-head victory and a strong resume that includes a win over Ohio State. Both teams face pivotal matchups in November, with Texas hosting Missouri and LSU in critical games that could redefine their playoff hopes.

Kentucky (7-1) sits at No. 10, boasting an impressive SEC resume, but questions linger about the strength of its schedule, particularly after losses to Oklahoma and Texas A&M.

The Wildcats’ upcoming games against Tennessee, Florida, and Missouri will be decisive in solidifying their playoff standing. Ohio State (7-2) ranks ninth, though doubts persist about their title contender status following a lackluster performance against USC, where the Buckeyes’ defense struggled mightily.

Alabama (6-2) holds the eighth spot, buoyed by a head-to-head win over Kentucky and losses only to teams currently ranked in the AP Top 20. A Week 10 showdown against LSU will be a litmus test for the Crimson Tide’s true potential.

Rounding out the top 10, UCLA (8-0) continues its remarkable turnaround under Bob Chesney, with their undefeated record making them a dark horse for a playoff berth.