Nebraska is 19-19 under Matt Rhule, and the Cornhuskers are coming off at 7-6 season. With Anthony Colandrea at quarterback and six starters back on defense, can Nebraska surprise and make a leap up the Big Ten standings?

East Carolina is going for its first back to back 9 win seasons in school history. Can the Pirates get it done with only three returning starters, including a new quarterback?

UTSA returns its star QB and has never had a losing record under head coach Jeff Traylor. Are the Roadrunners a title contender in the American in 2026?

In his first full year as the head coach at UAB, Alex Mortensen -- the son of former ESPN broadcaster Chris Mortensen -- hopes to get the Blazers back to a bowl game in the American. Is that a fair expectation?

Tulsa returns QB in Baylor Hayes and have six defenders back. Could the Hurricane have their first winning season since 2021?

Tulane went 11-3 last year and qualified for the College Football Playoff. With a new head coach, a new QB and just five returning starters back. is it fair to expect the Green Wave to win the American again?

Temple went 5-7 last season and will have a new quarterback (either Jaxon Smollk or Ajani Sheppard), a great tight end in Peter Clarke and a revamped defense. Will it be enough to get to a bowl game?

South Florida has a new head coach, a new QB and only three starters returning. However, the Bulls have reloaded with Power 4 guys on defense and brought in two QBs with Power 4 experience. Can they win the American in 2026?

The Rice Owls have not had a winning season in 12 years... could that change in 2026? Rice has options at QB, a running back in Quenton Jackson who should get 200+ carries and a rebuilt defense. Is it enough?

PJ Fleck is entering year 10 at Minnesota and may have one of his best rosters. Drake Lindsey is back at QB, as are other key offensive pieces. Anthony Smith will terrorize Big Ten quarterbacks on defense. Could the Gophers surprise?