Buffalo

Buffalo's offseason centers on replacing concentrated offensive production, particularly at receiver where Victor Snow (49.5 PPA) transferred to NC State and Nik McMillan (41.6 PPA) departed for Kansas. The Bulls grade out 104th nationally in JP+'s preseason ratings at -6.1 points, with an offense that ranks 116th (-4.9) dragging down a defense that sits a respectable 92nd (-2.2). Ta'Quan Roberson returns as the starting quarterback, but he'll need new primary targets after the program lost significant receiving production through the transfer portal.

JP+ projects 6.4 wins for Buffalo in 2026, a modest improvement from last year's 5-7 record but one that hinges on offensive replacement players stepping up immediately. The Bulls brought in 16 transfer portal arrivals to match 16 departures, though the incoming group carries no established production metrics yet. If the receiving corps can develop chemistry with Roberson and the defense maintains its relative stability, Buffalo could push toward bowl eligibility in the competitive MAC. If not, another sub-.500 season looms despite returning quarterback continuity.