As we gear up for the 2026 college football season, the anticipation is palpable. Among the many factors that will shape the upcoming year, the secondary units are particularly intriguing. ESPN's Greg McElroy has ranked the top 10 secondary units, and his insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the season. In this article, I'll delve into McElroy's rankings, offering my own analysis and commentary on each team's prospects.
The Top 10 Secondary Units in College Football 2026
1. Notre Dame
What makes Notre Dame stand out is the presence of Leonard Moore, a cornerback who McElroy believes is the best in college football. Moore's impact extends beyond statistics; his ability to play bigger than the numbers suggest makes him a force to be reckoned with. The Irish have strategically added pieces around Moore while retaining key players like Christian Gray and Adon Shuler. This depth and continuity under Marcus Freeman position Notre Dame as the top secondary unit in the country.
2. Alabama
Alabama's secondary is a testament to the continuity and stability of its coaching staff. With Kane Wommack at the helm, the Crimson Tide returns key players like Bray Hubbard, Keon Sabb, and Zabien Brown. Wommack's emphasis on 'violence' in practice has created a culture of excellence, and the team's performance last year, despite giving up only 19 points per game, is a strong indicator of their potential. The return of these players and the stability of the coaching staff make Alabama a formidable force in the secondary.
3. Texas Tech
Texas Tech's secondary was one of the best in the Big 12 last season, and they've managed to retain key players like Brice Pollock and Amier Boyd-Matthews. The Red Raiders' pass rush has been bolstered, and Joey McGuire's defense is built around the secondary. With returning production and continuity, Texas Tech is poised to play at a high level, making it one of the top three units in the sport.
4. Georgia
Georgia's secondary is led by KJ Bolden, who is back after a strong performance last season. However, the question mark remains at the second safety spot opposite Bolden. If one of the contenders steps up and solidifies that position, Georgia could potentially move up to the top two in McElroy's rankings. The Bulldogs' strength in the back end is undeniable, but the outcome of the competition at the second safety spot will be crucial.
5. LSU
LSU's secondary is a development powerhouse, thanks to Blake Baker's track record of nurturing defensive backs. The Tigers have added new pieces like Ty Benefield, who is expected to lead the charge. The pitch LSU made to elite defensive backs has been successful, and the program's reputation as a defensive back university (DBU) is well-deserved. With immediate production and developmental upside, LSU's secondary is a force to be reckoned with.
6. Ohio State
Ohio State's secondary infrastructure is impressive, and despite losing key players like Caleb Downs and Davison Igbinosun, they have managed to reload with players like Jaylen McClain and Jermaine Mathews returning. Earl Little Jr. from Florida State adds further depth. The Buckeyes' ability to reload rather than rebuild positions them as a top-six unit, even with the absence of top-tier players from the previous year.
7. Oregon
Oregon's secondary has a strong track record of development, and despite losing Dillon Thieneman and Jadon Canady to the NFL, they have reloaded with players like Koi Perich and Carl Williams from the transfer portal. The Ducks' system for defensive backs earns the benefit of the doubt, and their ability to assemble talent positions them as a top-seven unit.
8. Michigan
Michigan's secondary is led by Jay Hill, who takes over as defensive coordinator. Hill's scheme could help the Wolverines take a step forward, and the experience of players like Jyaire Hill and Zeke Berry is a significant advantage. Michigan's secondary is poised to be sound and effective, earning it a spot in the top eight.
9. Texas A&M
Texas A&M's secondary is anchored by Dezz Ricks, who is back in the fold. The Aggies have added Tennessee transfer Rickey Gibson and former Colorado defender Tawfiq Byard, providing continuity under Mike Elko. A&M's lockdown program and third-year continuity in Elko's system make it a top-nine unit.
10. Penn State
Penn State's secondary is led by players like Audavion Collins and Daryus Dixson, who are returning. The Nittany Lions have also added Marcus Neal from the transfer portal. Despite the changes at the head coaching staff, Penn State's blend of talent and new staff positions it as a top-10 unit. However, the team will need to earn its way onto the list with the new coach and culture.
Deeper Analysis
McElroy's rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the 2026 college football season. Each team has its strengths and weaknesses, and the rankings reflect the potential for success based on continuity, development, and individual talent. The secondary units are particularly intriguing, as they play a crucial role in a team's defense and can often be the difference between a good team and a great one.
Conclusion
As the 2026 college football season approaches, the secondary units are poised to be a key factor in determining the outcome of games. From the top-ranked Notre Dame to the bottom-ranked Penn State, each team has its own story to tell. The rankings provide a starting point for discussion, but the real test will come on the field. The buzz is building, and the anticipation is palpable as we prepare for the upcoming season. What will unfold in the secondary units remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the competition will be fierce, and the talent will shine.
