As the college football season draws closer, fans and analysts alike are circling the usual powerhouses expected to contend for the national championship—teams like Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, and Ohio State. However, college football is a sport built on unpredictability. Every season, a handful of teams emerge from the shadows to challenge the established order. These programs may not enter the season as favorites, but a combination of coaching, talent, schedule, and momentum can quickly catapult them into the title conversation. Here are five sleeper programs that could defy expectations and make a serious push for the national championship.
1. Ole Miss Rebels (SEC)
Head Coach Lane Kiffin has built a program that’s ready to break through. With Jaxson Dart returning at quarterback and a transfer portal haul that added playmakers on both sides of the ball—including former LSU running back Logan Diggs and key defensive transfers—Ole Miss has the firepower to compete in the loaded SEC. The Rebels will benefit from avoiding Georgia in the regular season, and their matchup with Alabama could be a pivotal swing game. If Ole Miss can navigate the tough middle of their schedule and avoid an upset against lesser opponents, they have the offensive versatility and defensive depth to contend.
2. Penn State Nittany Lions (Big Ten)
Penn State enters the season slightly overshadowed by Michigan and Ohio State, but that may be the perfect spot for James Franklin’s team. With Drew Allar expected to take a significant leap in his second season as starting quarterback and a strong stable of running backs led by Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, the offense could flourish. The defense, anchored by Abdul Carter and a deep secondary, has the tools to shut down high-powered opponents. Crucially, if Penn State can win one of its marquee matchups against either Michigan or Ohio State—and avoid a late-season stumble—the Nittany Lions could find themselves in the College Football Playoff conversation.
3. Florida State Seminoles (ACC)
Despite a disappointing finish to last season, Florida State remains one of the most complete teams in the country. Head Coach Mike Norvell has revitalized the Seminoles, and with a core group returning—especially on defense—the pieces are in place for a championship run. Although quarterback Jordan Travis has departed, the team has options at signal-caller, and the wide receiver room is loaded with talent. Additionally, the defense, led by pass rusher Patrick Payton and linebacker Kalen DeLoach, should be one of the ACC’s best. With Clemson looking vulnerable and no clear powerhouse in the conference, Florida State has a realistic path to an unbeaten season and a CFP berth.
4. Washington Huskies (Big Ten)
Washington may no longer be a true “sleeper” after last season’s national title appearance, but with the departure of quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and several offensive stars, many are prematurely writing them off. Don’t count them out just yet. New quarterback Will Rogers, who transferred from Mississippi State, brings SEC experience and a quick-release passing style that could mesh well with Kalen DeBoer’s system. The offensive line remains solid, and the defense, while needing some development, has potential under a restructured coaching staff. If the Huskies can get past early Big Ten tests and find chemistry on offense, they’re a dark horse to make a return trip to the playoff.
5. Louisville Cardinals (ACC)
Jeff Brohm’s first year back at his alma mater was a success, and year two could be even bigger. Louisville has recruited well, especially through the transfer portal, and returns key contributors on both offense and defense. With Jack Plummer gone, the Cardinals turn to transfer QB Tyler Shough from Texas Tech to lead an offense that emphasizes vertical threats and tempo. Defensively, Louisville is strong up front and has speed in the secondary, a combination that could cause problems for ACC offenses. Their schedule also plays in their favor: they avoid Florida State in the regular season and could be undefeated heading into a potential ACC title game. If they get there and win it, a playoff spot is within reach.
While these programs may not be considered traditional blue bloods or current favorites, they each possess the ingredients necessary for a surprise championship run: veteran leadership, elite coaching, depth through the transfer portal, and favorable schedules. In a sport increasingly influenced by parity and player movement, it’s never been more possible for a team outside the usual suspects to rise to the top. Keep a close eye on these five teams—they just might shake up the college football landscape in a big way.
