As the 2026 college football season gets underway, NBC Sports insider Nicole Auerbach shared her Power‑Four conference predictions with NBC 5. While TCU stumbled in its opening loss to UNC in Ireland, Auerbach believes the national championship picture is already taking shape.
Texas Longhorns (No. 5)
Auerbach is a strong advocate for the Texas Longhorns, now led by quarterback Arch Manning. She praised head coach Steve Sark’s decision to bring back defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, saying the move could elevate a solid defense to elite status. The addition of transfer running back Hollywood Smothers, she noted, should give Manning a more balanced attack and reduce pressure on the freshman star.
“Not being the preseason No. 1 gives Texas a chance to grow without the constant spotlight,” Auerbach said. “If the offense becomes more consistent and the defense improves, they can contend in the SEC, though Georgia remains a formidable hurdle.”
Georgia Bulldogs (No. 3)
Georgia remains Auerbach’s pick to win the SEC, largely because of head coach Kirby Smart’s proven track record. The Bulldogs retain the quarterback who guided them to the conference title last season and are expected to continue their dominance in Athens.
“The SEC still runs through Athens,” she affirmed, noting that despite recent CFP disappointments, Georgia’s consistency makes them the gold standard in the conference.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish (No. 4)
Notre Dame, an independent program, is projected to secure a high seed in the playoff. Auerbach highlighted the return of quarterback C.J. Carden and the presence of Leonard Moore, whom she called the nation’s best defensive player.
She emphasized Notre Dame’s manageable schedule and strong defensive foundation, adding, “There are virtually no weaknesses; I expect them to be a top seed on playoff night.”
Indiana Hoosiers (No. 6)
Reigning Big Ten champion Indiana, now featuring former TCU starter Josh Hoover at quarterback, is slated to repeat as conference champion. Auerbach cited head coach Curt Cignetti’s steady leadership and the team’s depth at quarterback and transfer positions as reasons for continued success.
USC Trojans (No. 14)
USC receives a bounce‑back vote, with Auerbach believing coach Lincoln Riley’s championship window is now open. She expects the Trojans to improve defensively under Gary Patterson and highlighted quarterback Jayden Maiava as a potential top‑nation talent.
“This could be the first year Riley takes USC to the playoff,” she said, noting the early season win over San Jose State as a positive sign.
UCLA Bruins
UCLA’s new head coach Bob Chesney is praised for his diverse coaching background. Auerbach expects the Bruins to surprise opponents and become a tough matchup for Big Ten teams, though she did not assign a specific conference ranking.
Overall, Auerbach’s outlook underscores the importance of coaching stability, quarterback development and defensive upgrades as the key drivers for playoff contention in 2026.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
