The College Football Playoff selection committee released its first rankings for the 2026 season on Tuesday, placing the Tennessee Volunteers at No. 13.
The initial top 25 sets the early postseason picture as the regular season enters its second half. Tennessee's position reflects a strong start that includes a victory over South Carolina on Oct. 24, 2026, where running back DeSean Bishop broke free for a notable run at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, S.C.
The rankings will be updated weekly through the end of the regular season, with the final four determining the playoff participants.


