100 Things to Know Before College Football’s Next Chapter

The college football landscape is poised for significant change, with the Pac-12 conference at its center. As teams prepare for the 2026 season, it’s clear that this year will be marked by transition, renewal, and potentially upheaval.

The Pac-12’s decision to expand its roster with new members such as Boise State, Colorado State, Fresno State, San Diego State, Texas State, and Utah State has been met with both enthusiasm and skepticism. The conference aims to position itself as a major player in college football, but history suggests that nothing is guaranteed.

Miami’s quarterback situation is one of the most intriguing storylines this season. The Hurricanes have landed Darian Mensah, who led Duke to its first ACC title since 1989 and set single-season records for passing yards and touchdowns. However, their decision to pursue Mensah has been met with controversy due to the reported $4 million contract.

Meanwhile, other teams are navigating their own challenges. Matt Campbell’s arrival at Penn State after a stint at Iowa State has generated interest in Happy Valley, while Lane Kiffin’s departure from Ole Miss for LSU raises questions about the Tigers’ chances of making a deep run.

Bill Belichick is entering his second season at North Carolina, and expectations are low following the team’s 4-8 record last year. However, it would be premature to count out the legendary coach, who has six Super Bowl championships under his belt as a head coach.

As the season approaches, one thing is certain: this year will be about more than just wins and losses on the field. It will be about the rebirth of the Pac-12, the emergence of new coaching stars, and the continued dominance of perennial powerhouses like Oregon.

The conference’s decision to expand its roster has raised questions about its ability to compete with established programs. Can the Pac-12 truly live up to its promise? Only time will tell.

This season marks a critical juncture in college football history, with quarterbacks emerging as key players. Stars like Dante Moore and Darian Mensah are leading their teams into battle, and it’s clear that the future of the sport lies with these talented signal-callers.

The coaching carousel has always been a staple of college football, but this season takes it to new heights. Lane Kiffin’s departure from Ole Miss for LSU and Matt Campbell’s arrival at Penn State have brought significant change to the landscape.

As teams navigate the drama on the field, it’s easy to forget about the bigger picture. But what does this season mean for college football as a whole? Will it usher in a new era of dominance from the Pac-12, or will established programs continue to reign supreme?

The 2026 season promises to be one for the ages, with the Pac-12 poised to make its mark on the sport. However, only time will tell what the future holds for college football’s next chapter.