Early Rankings High On Miami Hurricanes As National Title Favorite

Experts see the Hurricanes as a top contender for the 2026 college football season.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Miami Hurricanes are being widely projected as a national title contender in way-too-early top 25 rankings for the 2026 college football season. With an upgraded roster that includes key returning players on offense and defense, as well as some high-profile transfers, the Canes are seen as a top-10 team by multiple outlets like ESPN, Sports Illustrated, and The Sporting News.

Why it matters

Miami's high rankings indicate the program has reestablished itself as an elite national power after a period of inconsistency. If the Hurricanes can live up to the hype, it would mark a significant turnaround and potentially set them up for a run at their first national championship since 2017.

The details

On offense, the Hurricanes return top running back Mark Fletcher and wide receiver Malachi Toney, while adding Duke transfer quarterback Darian Mensah. The offensive line is a question mark, however, with four new starters. Defensively, Miami lost star ends Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor, but added Missouri pass rusher Damon Wilson and returns a talented secondary led by cornerbacks OJ Frederique and Xavier Lucas.

  • The way-too-early top 25 rankings were released in March 2026.

The players

Darian Mensah

Duke transfer quarterback who is expected to be an upgrade at the position for Miami.

Mark Fletcher

Miami's top returning running back.

Malachi Toney

Miami's top returning wide receiver, described as a "superstar in the making."

Damon Wilson

Missouri transfer pass rusher who will bolster Miami's defensive line.

OJ Frederique

One of Miami's starting cornerbacks and a key part of the team's talented secondary.

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What they’re saying

“The roster remains talented despite NFL departures. Wide receiver Malachi Toney is a superstar in the making. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. provides a physical presence in the backfield. The defensive line lost stars Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor. Young players like Justin Scott will need to step up to fill the void.”

— Matt De Lima, Sports Illustrated Writer (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

If Miami can live up to the preseason hype, the Hurricanes will likely be in contention for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Their matchup against Notre Dame on November 20th will be a key game that could determine their national title aspirations.

The takeaway

Miami's return to national prominence would be a significant development for the program and the ACC. The Hurricanes' high rankings indicate they have reloaded their roster and are poised to challenge for a championship after a period of inconsistency.