College Football Top 25 Rankings Week 9 (2026)

College Football Week 9 Top 25 Rankings and Predictions (2026)

The College Football Week 9 Top 25 rankings feature another major shakeup following an unpredictable Week 8. Miami takes over the No. 1 spot after dominating Pittsburgh 52-23, while undefeated UCLA climbs to No. 2 following another convincing victory.

Ohio State holds steady at No. 3 after its bye week, Indiana moves into the top four following a defensive battle against Michigan, and Georgia rounds out the top five.

The biggest surprise comes from BYU, which falls from No. 1 to No. 8 after suffering a 39-31 double-overtime loss to UCF. Texas Tech also drops following its defeat against Cincinnati, while Texas rebounds with an important SEC victory over Ole Miss.

With the College Football Playoff race intensifying, our updated Week 9 college football rankings highlight the teams building the strongest postseason résumés and the matchups that could reshape the national championship picture.

Here are HOF's complete 2026 College Football Week 9 Top 25 rankings, including updated records, Week 8 results, upcoming opponents and Week 9 predictions.

College Football Week 9 Top 25 Rankings: Full List

Here are our updated Top 25 college football rankings for Week 9 of the 2026 season.

Rank	Team	Record	Week 8 Result
1	Miami Hurricanes	7-0	Beat Pittsburgh 52-23
2	UCLA Bruins	7-0	Beat Michigan State 28-10
3	Ohio State Buckeyes	6-1	Bye
4	Indiana Hoosiers	7-1	Beat Michigan 13-6
5	Georgia Bulldogs	6-1	Bye
6	Notre Dame Fighting Irish	6-1	Bye
7	Utah Utes	7-0	Beat Houston 21-13
8	BYU Cougars	6-1	Lost to UCF 39-31 (2OT)
9	Kentucky Wildcats	7-1	Beat Vanderbilt 34-17
10	Tennessee Volunteers	6-2	Lost to South Carolina 27-24
11	Ole Miss Rebels	5-2	Lost to Texas 34-27
12	Alabama Crimson Tide	6-2	Beat Texas A&M 31-20
13	Texas Tech Red Raiders	6-1	Lost to Cincinnati 37-24
14	Wake Forest Demon Deacons	6-1	Bye
15	Texas Longhorns	5-2	Beat Ole Miss 34-27
16	LSU Tigers	6-2	Beat Auburn 38-17
17	USC Trojans	6-2	Lost to Wisconsin 24-7
18	Iowa Hawkeyes	5-2	Lost to Minnesota 13-10
19	Northwestern Wildcats	6-1	Beat Rutgers 42-14
20	Houston Cougars	6-2	Lost to Utah 21-13
21	Florida Gators	5-3	Bye
22	Boise State Broncos	5-1	Beat Washington State 31-10
23	SMU Mustangs	5-1	Bye
24	Missouri Tigers	5-3	Bye
25	Arizona Wildcats	5-1	Beat Iowa State 39-3

These are HOF's independent college football power rankings, not the official AP Top 25 or College Football Playoff rankings.

College Football Week 9 Rankings: Top 10 Team Breakdowns

1. Miami Hurricanes (7-0)

Week 8 Result: Beat Pittsburgh 52-23
Week 9 Opponent: At North Carolina

Miami takes over No. 1 in our College Football Week 9 Top 25 rankings after delivering one of its most impressive offensive performances of the season.

The Hurricanes defeated Pittsburgh 52-23 behind a four-touchdown performance from quarterback Darian Mensah.

After surviving a double-overtime battle against Florida State in Week 7, Miami responded with a much more convincing result.

The Hurricanes remain undefeated at 7-0 and have strengthened their position as one of the leading College Football Playoff contenders.

Their ability to produce explosive offensive performances makes them particularly dangerous as the ACC championship race intensifies.

Week 9 prediction: Miami enters its road matchup against North Carolina with the stronger résumé and should be favored to remain undefeated.

2. UCLA Bruins (7-0)

Week 8 Result: Beat Michigan State 28-10
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Nevada

UCLA continues its remarkable undefeated season with another convincing victory.

The Bruins defeated Michigan State 28-10, controlling the game with a dominant rushing attack that produced 245 yards on the ground.

UCLA's offense has complemented a defense that has consistently limited opposing scoring opportunities.

The Bruins previously defeated Oregon and Wisconsin in consecutive weeks, demonstrating their ability to win physical Big Ten matchups.

At 7-0, UCLA has emerged as one of the biggest surprises in college football.

Week 9 prediction: UCLA has an excellent opportunity to improve to 8-0 against Nevada, particularly if its rushing attack continues producing at this level.

3. Ohio State Buckeyes (6-1)

Week 8 Result: Bye
Week 9 Opponent: At USC

Ohio State remains No. 3 following its bye week.

The Buckeyes entered the break after defeating Indiana 19-15 in one of the most important Big Ten games of the season.

That victory strengthened Ohio State's playoff résumé and reinforced its position among the country's strongest one-loss teams.

The upcoming matchup against USC represents another significant challenge.

USC is coming off a disappointing defeat against Wisconsin, making this a crucial opportunity for both programs.

Week 9 prediction: Ohio State enters with the stronger recent résumé and has an opportunity to secure another important Big Ten victory.

4. Indiana Hoosiers (7-1)

Week 8 Result: Beat Michigan 13-6
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Minnesota

Indiana rebounds from its narrow loss against Ohio State with an impressive defensive victory over Michigan.

The Hoosiers defeated Michigan 13-6 on the road, demonstrating their ability to win physical games against strong Big Ten competition.

After falling 19-15 to Ohio State in Week 7, Indiana needed a response to maintain its position near the top of the rankings.

The victory over Michigan provides exactly that.

At 7-1, the Hoosiers remain firmly in the playoff conversation.

Week 9 prediction: Indiana's defense gives it a strong opportunity to improve to 8-1 against Minnesota.

5. Georgia Bulldogs (6-1)

Week 8 Result: Bye
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Florida in Jacksonville

Georgia climbs back into the top five after its bye week.

The Bulldogs previously suffered a surprising 27-24 loss to Auburn, dropping them from the No. 1 position in our Week 8 rankings.

Despite that setback, Georgia remains one of the country's most talented teams.

Its upcoming rivalry matchup against Florida will be particularly important for its SEC championship and playoff aspirations.

Florida enters with momentum from its earlier victory over Texas, making this a compelling matchup.

Week 9 prediction: Georgia has the stronger overall résumé, but Florida's recent performances suggest the Bulldogs could face a competitive rivalry game.

6. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (6-1)

Week 8 Result: Bye
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Navy at a neutral site

Notre Dame remains one of the strongest one-loss teams in college football.

The Fighting Irish entered their bye week following a narrow 28-24 defeat against BYU.

Although that loss ended their undefeated season, Notre Dame's overall performance has kept it firmly in the national championship conversation.

The upcoming rivalry matchup against Navy provides an opportunity to return to the win column.

Week 9 prediction: Notre Dame enters with the stronger overall résumé and should have an opportunity to improve to 7-1.

7. Utah Utes (7-0)

Week 8 Result: Beat Houston 21-13
Week 9 Opponent: At Cincinnati

Utah continues its undefeated season with a 21-13 victory over Houston.

Quarterback Devon Dampier delivered an impressive dual-threat performance, producing 204 passing yards and 150 rushing yards.

That offensive versatility has become a significant part of Utah's success.

The Utes remain one of the leading Big 12 contenders, particularly following losses by BYU and Texas Tech.

Their upcoming road matchup against Cincinnati will be another important test.

Week 9 prediction: Utah has the consistency and quarterback production to remain undefeated, although Cincinnati's victory over Texas Tech makes this a challenging matchup.

8. BYU Cougars (6-1)

Week 8 Result: Lost to UCF 39-31 (2OT)
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Arizona State

BYU experiences the biggest drop near the top of our Week 9 college football rankings.

After taking over No. 1 following its victory against Notre Dame, the Cougars suffered a surprising 39-31 double-overtime defeat against UCF.

The loss ends BYU's undefeated season and creates new questions about its ability to navigate the Big 12 schedule.

However, BYU still owns a significant victory over Notre Dame, keeping the Cougars firmly in the playoff discussion.

A home matchup against Arizona State offers an opportunity to recover.

Week 9 prediction: BYU should be motivated to rebound, but the Cougars will need a more consistent defensive performance to avoid another upset.

9. Kentucky Wildcats (7-1)

Week 8 Result: Beat Vanderbilt 34-17
Week 9 Opponent: Bye

Kentucky continues to emerge as one of the most impressive surprises in the SEC.

The Wildcats defeated Vanderbilt 34-17 to improve to 7-1.

Their résumé includes important victories over LSU and Oklahoma, demonstrating that Kentucky can compete with established conference contenders.

With several traditional SEC powers already holding multiple losses, Kentucky has positioned itself as a legitimate threat in the conference championship race.

Week 9 outlook: Kentucky enters its bye week with momentum and a strong opportunity to remain in the playoff conversation.

10. Tennessee Volunteers (6-2)

Week 8 Result: Lost to South Carolina 27-24
Week 9 Opponent: Bye

Tennessee falls to No. 10 after suffering a disappointing 27-24 defeat against South Carolina.

The Volunteers entered Week 8 with momentum following their impressive 26-10 victory over Alabama.

However, Tennessee couldn't maintain that momentum, surrendering a second-half lead against South Carolina.

At 6-2, the Volunteers remain competitive in the SEC, but their margin for error has narrowed.

Week 9 outlook: Tennessee needs to use its bye week to regroup and address the inconsistency that has contributed to its two losses.

College Football Week 9 Top 25 Rankings: Teams 11-25

11. Ole Miss Rebels (5-2)

Week 8 Result: Lost to Texas 34-27
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Auburn

Ole Miss drops outside the top 10 following its 34-27 defeat against Texas.

The Rebels mounted a second-half comeback but couldn't overcome an early deficit.

At 5-2, Ole Miss remains a dangerous SEC team, although another loss could significantly damage its playoff chances.

Auburn presents another important conference challenge.

12. Alabama Crimson Tide (6-2)

Week 8 Result: Beat Texas A&M 31-20
Week 9 Opponent: Bye

Alabama rebounds from its recent struggles with a 31-20 victory over Texas A&M.

The Crimson Tide scored two important fourth-quarter touchdowns to secure the win.

After consecutive losses against Georgia and Tennessee, Alabama needed a strong response.

The victory keeps the Crimson Tide in the playoff conversation entering their bye week.

13. Texas Tech Red Raiders (6-1)

Week 8 Result: Lost to Cincinnati 37-24
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Arizona

Texas Tech suffers its first loss of the season, falling 37-24 to Cincinnati.

The Red Raiders struggled defensively, allowing 255 rushing yards in the defeat.

After entering Week 8 undefeated and ranked No. 4, Texas Tech now faces pressure to respond.

Its upcoming matchup against Arizona will be important for maintaining its position in the Big 12 championship race.

14. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (6-1)

Week 8 Result: Bye
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Virginia

Wake Forest remains one of the ACC's most intriguing contenders.

The Demon Deacons enter Week 9 following a bye, with their most recent victory coming in a dominant 41-7 performance against California.

At 6-1, Wake Forest has positioned itself as a legitimate conference threat.

A home matchup against Virginia offers another opportunity to strengthen its résumé.

15. Texas Longhorns (5-2)

Week 8 Result: Beat Ole Miss 34-27
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Mississippi State

Texas rebounds from consecutive losses with a significant 34-27 victory over Ole Miss.

The Longhorns built an early 21-point lead and recorded three interceptions to help secure the win.

After dropping to No. 18 in our Week 8 rankings, Texas moves back into the top 15.

The victory provides much-needed momentum as the Longhorns continue their SEC schedule.

16. LSU Tigers (6-2)

Week 8 Result: Beat Auburn 38-17
Week 9 Opponent: Bye

LSU continues its recovery with a convincing 38-17 victory over Auburn.

The Tigers have now produced consecutive strong performances following their earlier loss against Kentucky.

At 6-2, LSU remains a factor in the SEC race.

The upcoming bye week provides an opportunity to prepare for the final stretch of the season.

17. USC Trojans (6-2)

Week 8 Result: Lost to Wisconsin 24-7
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Ohio State

USC suffers one of the most disappointing defeats of Week 8, falling 24-7 to Wisconsin.

The Trojans managed just 241 total yards, raising concerns about their offensive consistency.

Their upcoming matchup against No. 3 Ohio State is one of the biggest games on the Week 9 schedule.

USC needs a significantly better offensive performance to compete with the Buckeyes.

18. Iowa Hawkeyes (5-2)

Week 8 Result: Lost to Minnesota 13-10
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Wisconsin

Iowa drops to 5-2 following a narrow 13-10 defeat against Minnesota.

The Hawkeyes lost on a last-second field goal in another low-scoring Big Ten matchup.

Iowa's defensive identity remains intact, but offensive production continues to be a concern.

The Hawkeyes will attempt to rebound against Wisconsin.

19. Northwestern Wildcats (6-1)

Week 8 Result: Beat Rutgers 42-14
Week 9 Opponent: At Oregon

Northwestern continues its surprising season with a dominant 42-14 victory over Rutgers.

The Wildcats have emerged as one of the Big Ten's most improved teams and now sit at 6-1.

Their upcoming road matchup against Oregon represents a major test.

A victory would significantly strengthen Northwestern's standing in the conference.

20. Houston Cougars (6-2)

Week 8 Result: Lost to Utah 21-13
Week 9 Opponent: Bye

Houston suffers its second loss of the season, falling 21-13 against undefeated Utah.

The Cougars remained competitive throughout the matchup but couldn't generate enough offense to complete the upset.

At 6-2, Houston remains a respectable Big 12 contender.

The bye week provides an opportunity to regroup.

21. Florida Gators (5-3)

Week 8 Result: Bye
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Georgia in Jacksonville

Florida enters Week 9 following a bye, preparing for its annual rivalry matchup against Georgia.

The Gators previously earned an important victory over Texas, demonstrating their ability to compete with ranked SEC opponents.

A victory over Georgia would provide another significant boost to Florida's résumé.

22. Boise State Broncos (5-1)

Week 8 Result: Beat Washington State 31-10
Week 9 Opponent: Vs. Texas State

Boise State remains among the leading Group of Five playoff contenders after defeating Washington State 31-10.

The Broncos overcame a challenging start before pulling away.

At 5-1, Boise State remains firmly in the postseason discussion.

A matchup against Texas State provides another opportunity to strengthen its position.

23. SMU Mustangs (5-1)

Week 8 Result: Bye
Week 9 Opponent: At Syracuse

SMU enters Week 9 with a 5-1 record after its bye week.

The Mustangs remain in the ACC championship conversation and will look to continue their strong season against Syracuse.

Another conference victory would strengthen their postseason résumé.

24. Missouri Tigers (5-3)

Week 8 Result: Bye
Week 9 Opponent: At Arkansas

Missouri enters Week 9 following a bye, looking to recover from its earlier defeat against Ole Miss.

The Tigers remain competitive in the SEC but have limited room for additional losses.

Their road matchup against Arkansas represents an important opportunity to regain momentum.

25. Arizona Wildcats (5-1)

Week 8 Result: Beat Iowa State 39-3
Week 9 Opponent: At Texas Tech

Arizona rounds out our College Football Week 9 Top 25 rankings after delivering a dominant 39-3 victory over Iowa State.

The Wildcats' defense controlled the matchup, limiting Iowa State to just three points.

Arizona now travels to face No. 13 Texas Tech in one of the most intriguing Big 12 games of Week 9.

A victory would significantly strengthen the Wildcats' national profile.

Biggest Movers in the College Football Week 9 Rankings

The latest college football rankings for Week 9 reflect several significant results from Week 8.

Miami Takes Over No. 1

Miami moves from No. 2 to No. 1 after defeating Pittsburgh 52-23.

The Hurricanes remain undefeated and have demonstrated an ability to win both close games and high-scoring contests.

Their offensive performance against Pittsburgh strengthens their case as the nation's top team.

UCLA Climbs to No. 2

UCLA continues its remarkable rise after improving to 7-0.

The Bruins' 28-10 victory over Michigan State featured 245 rushing yards and another strong defensive performance.

UCLA now has one of the most impressive undefeated records in the country.

BYU Falls Seven Spots

BYU experiences the biggest drop among the top-ranked teams, falling from No. 1 to No. 8.

The Cougars' double-overtime loss to UCF ends their undefeated season and creates new questions about their Big 12 championship outlook.

However, their victory over Notre Dame remains an important part of their résumé.

Texas Tech Drops Nine Spots

Texas Tech falls from No. 4 to No. 13 after losing 37-24 to Cincinnati.

The Red Raiders struggled against the run, allowing 255 rushing yards.

Their upcoming matchup against Arizona provides an opportunity to recover.

Indiana Moves Into the Top Four

Indiana climbs from No. 6 to No. 4 after defeating Michigan 13-6.

The Hoosiers responded to their loss against Ohio State with an impressive defensive performance, reinforcing their position among the Big Ten's strongest teams.

Texas Rebounds Into the Top 15

Texas moves from No. 18 to No. 15 following its 34-27 victory over Ole Miss.

The Longhorns' three interceptions were instrumental in securing the win.

The result helps restore some momentum following consecutive losses.

College Football Week 9 Predictions: Biggest Games to Watch

Several important matchups could significantly affect the College Football Week 9 Top 25 rankings.

Ohio State vs. USC

Ohio State travels to USC for one of the biggest Big Ten games of Week 9.

The Buckeyes enter rested following their bye week, while USC is attempting to recover from a disappointing 24-7 loss against Wisconsin.

Prediction: Ohio State has the stronger recent résumé and enters with an advantage, particularly if its defense performs at the level it showed against Indiana.

Georgia vs. Florida

Georgia and Florida meet in Jacksonville for one of college football's most recognizable rivalries.

Georgia enters at 6-1, while Florida is looking to build on its earlier victory against Texas.

Prediction: Georgia has the stronger overall résumé, but Florida has demonstrated that it can compete with ranked opponents. Expect a competitive SEC rivalry matchup.

Utah vs. Cincinnati

Utah puts its undefeated record on the line against Cincinnati.

The Utes are coming off a 21-13 victory over Houston, while Cincinnati recently defeated Texas Tech 37-24.

Prediction: Utah has the consistency and dual-threat quarterback production to win, but Cincinnati presents a serious upset threat after its performance against Texas Tech.

Arizona vs. Texas Tech

Arizona travels to Texas Tech following its dominant 39-3 victory over Iowa State.

Texas Tech, meanwhile, is attempting to rebound from its first loss of the season.

Prediction: Texas Tech should be motivated to respond at home, but Arizona's defensive performance makes this a potentially competitive Big 12 matchup.

BYU vs. Arizona State

BYU returns home after suffering its first defeat of the season.

The Cougars remain among the country's strongest one-loss teams, but their defensive performance against UCF raises questions.

Prediction: BYU has an opportunity to rebound against Arizona State, although the Cougars will need to avoid the defensive mistakes that contributed to their Week 8 loss.

College Football Playoff Picture Entering Week 9

The College Football Playoff race has changed significantly following Week 8.

Miami and UCLA now occupy the top two spots in our rankings, while Utah remains undefeated at No. 7.

Several previously undefeated teams, including BYU and Texas Tech, suffered their first losses.

Undefeated Teams in the Week 9 Top 25

Three teams in our rankings remain undefeated:

• Miami (7-0)
• UCLA (7-0)
• Utah (7-0)

These teams have positioned themselves as serious postseason contenders.

However, Ohio State, Indiana, Georgia and Notre Dame remain firmly in the conversation despite having one loss.

Big Ten Playoff Contenders

The Big Ten remains one of the strongest conferences in the country.

UCLA, Ohio State and Indiana all sit inside the top four, while USC and Northwestern remain ranked.

Ohio State's upcoming matchup against USC could significantly influence the conference race.

SEC Playoff Contenders

Georgia leads the SEC teams in our rankings at No. 5.

Kentucky, Tennessee, Ole Miss, Alabama, Texas and LSU also remain among the Top 25.

With several SEC teams holding multiple losses, upcoming conference games will be increasingly important.

Big 12 Playoff Contenders

Utah is now the highest-ranked Big 12 team at No. 7.

BYU and Texas Tech remain inside the top 15 despite suffering their first losses.

Arizona also has an opportunity to strengthen its résumé with a road victory against Texas Tech.

College Football Week 9 Top 25 Rankings FAQ

What are the College Football Week 9 Top 25 rankings?

Our Week 9 rankings begin with Miami at No. 1, UCLA at No. 2, Ohio State at No. 3, Indiana at No. 4 and Georgia at No. 5. The full list includes all 25 teams, records and Week 8 results.

Who is ranked No. 1 in college football for Week 9?

Miami is No. 1 in HOF's 2026 college football Week 9 rankings after defeating Pittsburgh 52-23 and improving to 7-0.

What are the top five college football teams entering Week 9?

The top five teams are Miami, UCLA, Ohio State, Indiana and Georgia.

Why did BYU drop in the Week 9 college football rankings?

BYU fell from No. 1 to No. 8 after losing 39-31 to UCF in double overtime. The defeat ended the Cougars' undefeated season.

Where is Texas Tech ranked in Week 9?

Texas Tech is No. 13 after losing 37-24 to Cincinnati. The Red Raiders entered Week 8 ranked No. 4.

Which college football teams are undefeated entering Week 9?

Miami, UCLA and Utah are the three undefeated teams in our Week 9 Top 25 rankings.

What are the biggest college football games in Week 9?

Important Week 9 matchups include Ohio State vs. USC, Georgia vs. Florida, Utah vs. Cincinnati, Arizona vs. Texas Tech and BYU vs. Arizona State.

Are these the official AP Top 25 rankings?

No. These are HOF's independent college football power rankings, based on team performance, quality victories, consistency and playoff potential.

Final College Football Week 9 Top 25 Rankings Outlook

The College Football Week 9 Top 25 rankings for 2026 reflect a season in which the national championship picture continues to change rapidly.

Miami takes over No. 1 after its dominant victory against Pittsburgh, while UCLA climbs to No. 2 and Ohio State remains No. 3.

Indiana and Georgia round out the top five, while Utah becomes the highest-ranked undefeated Big 12 team following losses by BYU and Texas Tech.

The biggest question entering Week 9 is whether Miami and UCLA can maintain their unbeaten records while traditional contenders such as Ohio State, Georgia and Notre Dame continue strengthening their playoff résumés.

With several important conference matchups approaching, another rankings shakeup could be on the horizon.

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