The Script Never Holds in College Football

The Power Four favorites are clear: No. 1 Ohio State in the Big Ten, No. 3 Georgia in the SEC, No. 7 Miami in the ACC, and No. 12 Texas Tech in the Big 12. But college football rarely follows the script. This time last year, Texas was the preseason favorite in the SEC, Penn State was picked to win the Big Ten, and Indiana was picked to finish sixth. Sleeper teams are ready to pounce in every conference.

Big Ten: No. 19 Washington Huskies

Washington will be sneaky good in Jedd Fisch's third season. The Huskies' offense has the pieces to compete with anyone, and the defense has improved under Fisch's staff. Quarterback Demond Williams Jr. is a budding star, and if the offseason transfer drama doesn't distract him, Washington could challenge for a top-four spot.

SEC: No. 9 Oklahoma Sooners

The Sooners reached the playoff last season and seem capable of climbing above Georgia and Texas to win the SEC. OU has a nasty defense, a healthy John Mateer at quarterback, and a nice collection of skill talent. The key is whether the offense can run the ball — last year's team failed to run for more than 103 yards in six of nine SEC games.

ACC: No. 23 Clemson Tigers

That Clemson qualifies as a dark horse behind Miami and SMU speaks to the program's steady decline. Yet the Tigers remain talented with solid depth and a potential spark at offensive coordinator in Chad Morris. The biggest question is whether quarterback Christopher Vizzina is ready for the starting job.

Big 12: Arizona State Sun Devils

Texas Tech is the overwhelming favorite, but Arizona State won the Big 12 in 2024 and won eight games last season. The Sun Devils look much different and rely on one of the league's top transfer classes. If a reworked offensive line gives the skill talent room to operate, ASU could pop back toward the top of the standings.

Group of Five Dark Horses

East Carolina in the AAC has a strong portal class and favorable schedule. Delaware in Conference USA has the league's best quarterback in Nick Minicucci. Central Michigan in the MAC made gains in Year 1 under Matt Drinkall and draws the favorites at home. North Dakota State in the Mountain West enters FBS with a legendary dynasty pedigree. Washington State in the new Pac-12 and Marshall in the Sun Belt round out the list.

What This Means for CFB 27

In College Football 27, these sleeper teams are excellent Dynasty mode choices. Washington (3-star) offers a path through the Big Ten's manageable schedule. Oklahoma (4-star) is close to contention with a strong recruiting base. Clemson (4-star) is the most intriguing — can you restore ACC dominance? Arizona State (3-star) is the ultimate challenge with a transfer-heavy roster.