The confetti may still be falling on Indiana following its improbable run to the College Football Playoff National Championship.
But with last season now in the rearview mirror, it’s time to turn the page to the 2026-27 campaign.
While the transfer portal makes the future more unpredictable, here’s an early look at my National Championship best bets for next season.
CFP National Championship Odds 2026-27
All college football odds used for these National Championship predictions are current as of Thursday, Jan. 22, and courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
- Ohio State (+700)
- Indiana (+700)
- Notre Dame (+750)
- Texas (+750)
- Oregon (+850)
- Georgia (+1000)
- LSU (+1200)
- Texas Tech (+1500)
- Texas A&M (+1800)
- Alabama (+2000)
- Miami (+2000)
All other teams have odds of +3500 or longer.
Who Will Win the CFP National Championship?
Texas (+750)
After an inauspicious start, Arch Manning had a strong first season as a starter, throwing for 3,163 yards and accounting for 36 touchdowns (26 passing, 10 rushing).
That translated into a third straight double-digit win campaign, but one that ended without a return to the CFP.
Next season will likely be Manning’s final act as a Longhorn, and expectations will be immense. But that’s nothing new for college football’s most famous nephew, who has shown his potential as a championship-caliber quarterback.
It’s title or bust for Texas, my National Championship winner pick for 2026.
Back the Longhorns to win their first title since 2005 as one of your best college football bets today.
CFP National Championship Contenders
Ohio State (+700)
Ohio State loses a lot, but returns quarterback Julian Sayin and All-American wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. On paper, Ryan Day’s team might be the best in the country.
But along with having to revamp the defense, which is losing safety Caleb Downs and linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles — all projected first-round picks — to the NFL Draft, the Buckeyes will face one of the most challenging schedules in the country.
No matter the case, it’d be foolish to count them out.
Indiana (+700)
The most stunning turnaround in college football history is complete. Now, the national champions will need to replace Heisman-winning quarterback Fernando Mendoza and several other key starters.
Then again, that’s the nature of this sport in the NIL (name, image, and likeness) era. And chances are, Curt Cignetti will figure it out.
He’s already added some key transfers, including TCU quarterback Josh Hoover, Boston College running back Turbo Richard, and Michigan State wide receiver Nick Marsh.
Those doubting Cignetti’s ability to reload should know better by now.
CFP National Championship Sleeper Pick
Miami (+2000)
National runner-up Miami loses star pass rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor in addition to a majority of its offensive line.
However, the Hurricanes have been mentioned as a landing spot for Duke transfer Darien Mensah, one of the top quarterbacks in the portal.
Having thrown for 3,973 yards and 34 touchdowns, Mensah would be a perfect plug-and-play replacement for Carson Beck.
At 20-1 National Championship odds, the Hurricanes are worth a sprinkle.
Past CFP National Championship Winners
2026: Indiana
2025: Ohio State
2024: Michigan
2023: Georgia
2022: Georgia
2021: Alabama
2020: LSU
2019: Clemson
2018: Alabama
2017: Clemson
2016: Alabama
2015: Ohio State
