Pete Golding's Ole Miss squad sat in Top 10 in way-too-early Top 25 rankings, but they could have easily gone higher were it not for two major factors holding them back.

Where things stand in the nation's deepest conference after transfer portal season

NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) seems to be a permanent aspect of college athletics, regardless of whether fans, coaches or upper management support it. Athletes have long advocated for the right to be compensated for their name, image and likeness. However, this practice was not permitted in college sports until the summer of 2021.

Way-too-early 2026 college football rankings featuring Ohio State, Oregon, Texas, and Indiana. Analysis of top 25 teams, key transfers, and coaching changes.