Transfer portal, recruiting classes bring six college football teams into playoff picture entering 2026 season

This offseason, six college football teams have significantly bolstered their rosters, positioning themselves as contenders for the 2026 College Football Playoff. Texas, LSU, USC, and Indiana, among others, have enhanced their squads through strategic use of the transfer portal and successful high school recruiting. Indiana, the current national champion, is leveraging its recent success to improve its recruiting outcomes under head coach Curt Cignetti, aiming to transition from underdog status to a consistent powerhouse. This analysis comes from 247Sports' Andrew Ivins and Cooper Petagna, who highlighted the impactful roster additions that could lead these teams to a CFP berth next season.