Texas A&M

The Aggies enter 2026 looking to rebound from a post-CFP step-back, banking on returning quarterback Marcel Reed and strong line play to fuel another playoff push. Texas A&M grades out ninth nationally at +19.2 points per game in JP+'s preseason ratings, powered by a balanced attack that ranks 12th on offense (+7.8) and 13th on defense (+8.7). The portal window brought significant changes, with 24 departures costing 14.0 PPA but 18 arrivals adding 87.9 PPA led by Alabama transfer Isaiah Horton (52.8 PPA). New coordinators Holmon Wiggins (offense) and Lyle Hemphill (defense) take over after internal promotions, inheriting a roster that lost safety Bryce Anderson and tight end Amari Niblack but added impact players like Richie Anderson from Fresno State and Houston Thomas from UTSA.

JP+ projects 8.5 wins for the Aggies, who face a challenging SEC slate including road trips to LSU, Oklahoma, and Alabama. The continuity picture shows mixed signals — Reed's return provides quarterback stability, but defensive front pressure attrition creates uncertainty up front, and offensive continuity concerns linger despite strong line returnees. Special teams rank 97th nationally, a potential liability in close conference games. If Reed develops chemistry quickly with Horton and the new coordinators maximize talent retention, A&M has the pieces for another double-digit win season. If the defensive front struggles to replace departed pass rushers and offensive rhythm takes time to develop, the Aggies could find themselves fighting for bowl eligibility in a loaded SEC.