Vanderbilt football, fresh off a historic 2025 season with a 10-2 record, faces challenges in 2026 after the departure of star quarterback Diego Pavia, who is now with the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. The Commodores are expected to start true freshman Jared Curtis under center, following his surprise commitment from Georgia. The upcoming season will be tough, featuring a nine-game SEC schedule that includes difficult matchups against teams like Auburn, Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee. Meanwhile, Ohio State’s potent offense is led by returning quarterback Julian Sayin, but the team has lost significant defensive talent to the NFL, raising concerns about their performance on that side of the ball. Ole Miss, after a strong 2025 campaign that ended in the Fiesta Bowl, must navigate a tougher schedule and deal with coaching changes, including Lane Kiffin’s departure. These programs are at risk of underperforming compared to their previous seasons.
Why It Matters
The performance of college football programs like Vanderbilt, Ohio State, and Ole Miss in 2026 will be closely watched due to the impact of player departures and coaching changes. Historically, teams that lose key players, especially at quarterback, often struggle in the following season. The SEC’s demanding schedule adds further pressure, as teams must face formidable rivals week after week. Additionally, the ability to adapt to roster changes and maintain competitive performance is crucial for programs seeking to enhance their recruiting and overall reputation in collegiate football.
Want More Context? 🔎
