Sleeper teams from each Power 4 conference: Who will exceed expectations this college football season?
The article highlights college football teams it believes could outperform preseason expectations in 2026, focusing on programmes in the Power 4 conferences that have plausible routes to challenging established contenders.
– Virginia Tech (ACC): James Franklin’s appointment, strong returning production and quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer’s experience could lift the Hokies above their projected eighth-place ACC finish.
– Houston (Big 12): After a 10-win, top-25 season, Willie Fritz’s experienced Cougars are presented as potential challengers to Texas Tech, aided by a favourable conference schedule.
– Washington (Big Ten): The article points to coach Jedd Fisch’s record of rapid improvement at Arizona as a reason to expect the Huskies to make progress.
- Virginia Tech could exceed low ACC expectations.
- Houston may challenge Texas Tech in the Big 12.
- Washington’s prospects rest heavily on Jedd Fisch.