Experts Predict 2026 CFB Champion: LSU Tops a Crowded Field

On3 compiles predictions from 57 college football pundits across outlets like ESPN, CBS, and The Athletic, forecasting the 2026 national championship with LSU (under Lane Kiffin and transfer QB Sam Leavitt) and Georgia among the favorites, plus frequent mentions of Miami, Indiana, Texas, Ohio State, Oregon, and Notre Dame. The piece highlights QB play and roster depth as key factors for each pick and notes that a surprise contender could still emerge as Week 0 action unfolds.