The first College Football Playoff rankings of the 2026 season were released on Tuesday, placing the Miami Hurricanes at the top spot. The Alabama Crimson Tide appeared at No. 5, while the Notre Dame Fighting Irish landed at No. 11, prompting widespread surprise among observers.
The rankings, unveiled by the CFP selection committee, mark the initial benchmark for the four-team playoff race. Miami's undefeated record and strong schedule strength propelled them to No. 1, ahead of other contenders.
Alabama's placement at No. 5 raised eyebrows given the program's historical dominance, while Notre Dame's No. 11 ranking sparked debate about the committee's evaluation of independent programs.
Associated Press reporter Eddie Pells noted the collective reaction of "Huh?" from fans and analysts alike, highlighting the unexpected nature of the early rankings.
