After disappointing seasons, these five programs enter 2026 with legitimate reasons to believe things could look much different. From coaching changes to major transfers, each has a path toward a big turnaround.
Florida
Florida might be one of the most interesting bounce-back teams after hiring Jon Sumrall as its new head coach. Sumrall brings a new identity and energy to Gainesville after the Gators desperately needed a reset.
Florida still has plenty of talent, and if Sumrall can get things moving quickly, the Gators could become a dangerous team in the SEC sooner than expected.
South Carolina
Don’t completely give up on South Carolina.
The Gamecocks still have elite-level players like quarterback LaNorris Sellers and defensive star Dylan Stewart, giving them two players capable of taking over games. South Carolina disappointed last season, but the talent hasn’t disappeared.
If the Gamecocks can build around those stars, a major bounce back isn’t unrealistic.
Florida State
Florida State desperately needs to get things turned around, and the Seminoles attacked the transfer portal looking for immediate help.
FSU brought in several talented transfers who could help fix some of the roster’s biggest weaknesses. Now it’s about turning those additions into results. The Seminoles have been down, but there’s still enough talent in Tallahassee to make a significant jump in 2026.
Baylor
Baylor could be a sneaky team to watch after landing quarterback DJ Lagway.
Lagway gives the Bears a potential difference-maker at the most important position on the field. In a Big 12 where the championship race can change quickly, landing a quarterback with his talent could completely change Baylor’s ceiling.
Don’t be shocked if the Bears become one of the conference’s biggest surprises.
Penn State
Penn State has one of the most fascinating situations in college football entering 2026.
Matt Campbell takes over with several familiar faces following him from Iowa State, giving the Nittany Lions a chance to reset quickly. Penn State still has plenty of talent and one of the biggest brands in the Big Ten.
The question isn’t whether Penn State can improve. It’s whether Campbell can get them back into Big Ten and College Football Playoff contention immediately.
All five programs disappointed in some way last season, but 2026 gives them a fresh start. Don’t be surprised if several go from being forgotten about to playing meaningful football late in the year.
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