In the ever-evolving landscape of college football, the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) is set to shake things up. As the season unfolds, the question on everyone's mind is: Who will make the cut? Fox Sports' Joel Klatt has an intriguing take on this, naming the top 10 teams that could potentially make their first 12-team CFP appearance. These squads, he argues, have the potential to disrupt the bracket and make a significant impact. But what makes these teams stand out, and why are they worth keeping an eye on? Let's dive into Klatt's picks and explore the possibilities.
Iowa: Leveling Up Under Ferentz
Iowa, a consistent program under head coach Kirk Ferentz, is on Klatt's radar. The Hawkeyes have had their fair share of success, but the question remains: Can they break through and reach the 10-win mark? The answer, according to Klatt, lies in the hands of their quarterback. If they can improve their roster and hit the right schedule, Iowa might just be the team to watch, aiming to level up and make a playoff run.
Washington: The Key is Williams
Washington, with its well-regarded head coach Jedd Fisch, is another team Klatt highlights. The Huskies, led by quarterback Demond Williams, have a solid offensive line and a promising schedule. The key for Washington, according to Klatt, is for Williams to perform well in big games. If they can manage their schedule and Williams shines, the Huskies might just sneak into the CFP on the backend.
Houston: Weigman's Electric Offense
Houston, under the guidance of head coach Willie Fritz, is a team to watch. With quarterback Conner Weigman showing improvement last season and an All-Big 12 wide receiver in Amare Thomas, the Cougars' offense is set to be electric. Klatt believes that Weigman's growth and the team's strong defense, led by Fritz, could propel Houston to win the Big 12 and secure a spot in the CFP.
Arizona: Brennan's Rising Wildcats
Arizona, under head coach Brent Brennan, is steadily rising. With quarterback Noah Fifita returning for his fourth year as a starter, the Wildcats are experienced and ready to make a run. Klatt points out that Brennan's leadership and Fifita's experience make Arizona a team to watch in the Big 12, aiming for their first playoff appearance.
Utah: Scalley's Aggressive Defense
Utah, under head coach Morgan Scalley, is known for its aggressive defense and strong offensive line. With quarterback Devon Dampier returning and a new WR corps, the Utes are set to compete. Klatt notes that Scalley's familiarity with the program won't change much, but the team's potential to make the CFP is undeniable.
Louisville: Brohm's Wide-Open ACC
Louisville, under head coach Jeff Brohm, is a team with an excellent track record. With nearly all new offensive personnel due to transfers, the Cardinals are set to make a run. Klatt believes that Brohm's coaching prowess and the wide-open ACC make Louisville a strong contender for the No. 2 spot, aiming for their first 12-team CFP appearance.
Michigan: Whittingham's Hard-Nosed Play
Michigan, under head coach Kyle Whittingham, is a team with a strong defensive mindset. With Whittingham's hard-nosed play in the trenches and quarterback Bryce Underwood's sophomore year under OC Jason Beck, the Wolverines are set to make a run. Klatt thinks Michigan can return to the playoff and make a significant impact in the 12-team iteration.
USC: Riley's Tough Wins
USC, under head coach Lincoln Riley, is a team that showed signs of improvement last season. With quarterback Jayden Maiava returning and the trenches play expected to be better in 2026, the Trojans are set to compete. Klatt highlights their tough wins against Michigan and Iowa, suggesting that if they can maintain their form at home, USC might surprise everyone and compete for the top of the Big Ten and the CFP.
BYU: Bachmeier's Intriguing QB
BYU, under head coach Kalani Sitake, is a team with a loaded roster. With quarterback Bear Bachmeier going into his sophomore year, the Cougars are set to make a run. Klatt notes that Bachmeier's intriguing performance and Sitake's commitment make BYU a team to watch in the Big 12, aiming for a championship run.
LSU: Kiffin's National Title Expectations
LSU, under head coach Lane Kiffin, is a team with high expectations. With Kiffin's proven track record of 10-plus wins in his final seasons at Ole Miss, the Tigers are set to make a run. Klatt believes that Kiffin's leadership and the team's potential make LSU a strong contender for the national title and a spot in the CFP.
As the season unfolds, these 10 teams, each with their unique strengths and potential, could disrupt the bracket and make a significant impact. Klatt's picks offer a fascinating glimpse into the possibilities, leaving fans eager to see who will make the cut and who will surprise everyone with their performances.
