The “new, rebuilt, slightly chaotic but still very fun” Pac-12 is set to roll into 2026 with eight football members and about 800 storylines. So yes, it’s wildly irresponsible to rank them now. Which is exactly why we’re doing it.
These way-too-early power rankings are based on four criteria: program stability and track record, returning production from 2025, transfer portal impact, and our perceived difficulty of the 2026 schedule.
Speaking of which, the inaugural Pac-12 schedule has been released and there are some good games with plenty of intrigue all season long. So here’s what we think of these teams so far.
8. Colorado State Rams
The Rams have recruiting momentum and flashes of offensive explosiveness. If their incoming transfers like WR Jackson Harper from UConn can miraculously elevate with the returning talent from 2025, they could be a weekly problem. The issue is consistency in the trenches and a schedule that doesn’t offer many breathers. Bringing in Jim Mora Jr. for head coach stability keeps them competitive, but they’re still a tier below the top half—for now.
7. Texas State Bobcats
The Bobcats bring intrigue and Texas recruiting juice, but the leap into a restructured Pac-12 gauntlet is steep. Coaching continuity helps with GJ Kinne and his elevated standard so far in San Marcos, yet returning production from a Sun Belt-level grind doesn’t automatically translate. If the portal class hits with the likes of big OL William Boon, they’ll climb. For now, the schedule curve (Both SDSU and Boise State on the road) and depth concerns keep them seventh.
6. Utah State Aggies
Utah State has proven it can be pesky, especially at home. The question is ceiling. Coaching turnover in recent seasons has made long-term trajectory murky, but Bronco Mendenhall has already sparked the program after his first season. A strong portal haul is aimed to shore up the defense, but the Aggies may struggle against the conference’s more physical rosters. If a clear veteran QB emerges between BYU transfers McCae Hillstead and Virginia Grady Brosterhous a manageable schedule could steal them a couple spots, but on paper, seventh feels right.
5. Oregon State Beavers
Oregon State enters with the most hope on the line. Coaching infrastructure and player development have been strengths, but the last few seasons have been rough. Brining in new HC JaMarcus Shepard from Alabama is a big swing for a big hit. The portal will determine whether they’re good—or conference contending good. They’ve brought in Mercer duo QB Braden Atkinson and WR Adonis McDaniel. But the Beavers will need to be physically imposing on the front seven and offensive line to be truly special. A competitive schedule caps them at fifth in this early snapshot.
4. CAL State Fresno Bulldogs
Fresno State had an interesting first season under HC Matt Entz. The Bulldogs traditionally develop veteran quarterbacks and disciplined defenses, so last season wasn’t up to their standards. If they return strong production at key positions, they’ll hover around the conference’s middle-to-upper class. A tough 2026 road slate slightly tempers expectations, but this is a program built to outplay preseason projections. They got to get the Old Oil Can back first though, before I can take them too seriously.
3. San Diego State Aztecs
San Diego State’s ranking hinges on two things: offensive elevation and portal success. The Aztecs fielded a top-tier defense last year when roster continuity was strong, and coaching culture was a plus. The defensive newcomers will need to keep that excellence going with new DC Demetrius Sumler. The returning production improves Sean Lewis’ 3rd year on the offensive side—particularly in the passing game. If all stays healthy they could easily jump into the top two. A balanced but not overwhelming 2026 schedule keeps them in striking distance of taking the next step that eluded them last season.
2. Washington State Cougars
Washington State’s offensive identity gives them a weekly puncher’s chance against anyone. New Head Coach Kirby Moore bring with him bonafide offensive chops. Since retaining their top skill players like WR Tony Freeman, RB Kirby Vorhees, as well as offensive lineman, the transition may be better than expected. Supplement via the portal, they’ll likely field one of the league’s most efficient passing attacks. The only hesitation? Defensive consistency. They did retain their sack leader Isaac Terrell and fellow DL Jack Janikowski. Some key additions could keep revive their program quickly.
1. Boise State Broncos
Until proven otherwise, Boise State gets the crown. The Broncos consistently rank near the top of the Group of Five in returning production and portal efficiency, and their coaching with Spencer Danielson is stable & reliable as a blue turf meme. If 2025 performance trends carry over—they enter 2026 as the most complete roster in the league. A challenging but navigable schedule only strengthens their résumé.
It’s February. Depth charts will change rosters. Maybe some fluke injuries, a breakout freshmen, and surprise quarterback battles might make this look ridiculous by Fall Camp 2026. But for now, what do you think? Does the Pac-12 race still feel wide open? Let us know your rank in the comments.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
