As the 2026 college football season approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Among the many factors that will shape the upcoming year, the secondary units are sure to be a key area of focus. ESPN's Greg McElroy has ranked the top 10 secondary units heading into the season, and his insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the upcoming year. In this article, I will analyze McElroy's rankings, offering my own interpretation and commentary on each team's prospects.
The Top 10 Secondary Units
1. Notre Dame
What makes Notre Dame stand out is the presence of Leonard Moore, who McElroy believes is the best cornerback in college football. Moore's impact extends beyond statistics; his ability to play bigger than the numbers suggest makes him a formidable force. With six defensive backs having starting-level experience, Notre Dame boasts a depth that few other programs can match. This unit is not just about individual talent; it's about the collective strength of a group that has been built around Moore's exceptional skills. In my opinion, the Irish secondary is not just the best in the country, but also one of the most well-rounded and strategically sound.
2. Alabama
Alabama's secondary unit is a testament to the continuity and stability that Kane Wommack has brought to the program. With players like Bray Hubbard, Keon Sabb, and Zabien Brown returning, the Crimson Tide has a strong foundation. Wommack's emphasis on 'violence' in practice suggests a commitment to aggressive and effective defense. The fact that Hubbard chose to return to Alabama despite NFL Draft buzz speaks to the appeal of the program and the confidence he has in the coaching staff. From my perspective, Alabama's secondary is not just strong; it's a unit that could potentially dominate the SEC and make a significant impact in the national championship race.
3. Texas Tech
Texas Tech's secondary unit was one of the best in college football last season, and the Red Raiders have managed to retain key players like Brice Pollock and Amier Boyd-Matthews. The addition of talent from the transfer portal further strengthens the unit. Joey McGuire's defense is built around the secondary, and the presence of a strong defensive line will naturally aid the secondary. The continuity and returning production make Texas Tech a formidable force in the Big 12. In my view, the Red Raiders have the potential to be a top-three unit in the country, especially with the talent they have returning and the strategic depth they have built.
4. Georgia
Georgia's secondary unit is led by KJ Bolden, who had a standout season last year. However, the question mark for the Bulldogs is at the second safety spot opposite Bolden. The competition is still unsettled coming out of spring, and one of those players will have to step up. If that happens, Georgia has a legitimate argument to be in the top two on this list. The Bulldogs' secondary is strong, and with Bolden back, they have the potential to be a top-two unit. From my perspective, Georgia's secondary is a unit that could surprise many and make a deep run in the playoffs.
5. LSU
LSU's secondary unit is a testament to the development of defensive backs under Blake Baker. The Tigers have a track record of producing elite defensive backs, and with new additions like Ty Benefield leading the charge, they are poised for success. Baker's reputation as a defensive back university (DBU) is well-deserved, and the pitch LSU made to Benefield and other elite defensive backs is a compelling one. The unit has immediate production and massive developmental upside, making it a top-five unit in my opinion.
6. Ohio State
Ohio State's secondary unit is a separate entity from its individual players. The Buckeyes have a strong infrastructure and a track record of reloading rather than rebuilding. With players like Jaylen McClain and Jermaine Mathews back, and Earl Little Jr. arriving from Florida State, Ohio State doesn't miss a beat as a top-10 unit. The secondary's strength lies in its ability to adapt and maintain its high level of play despite the absence of top-tier players from the previous season. In my view, Ohio State's secondary is a unit that could surprise many and make a deep run in the playoffs.
7. Oregon
Oregon's secondary unit has a track record of development, and the Ducks have reloaded with talent from the transfer portal. The argument for Oregon is not the names on the depth chart, but rather the program's ability to assemble talent together. The system that Lanning's staff has developed for defensive backs earns the benefit of the doubt. The unit has the potential to be a top-10 unit, and with the track record of development, the Ducks are a team to watch.
8. Michigan
Michigan's secondary unit is led by Jay Hill, who will have some continuity from last year's Wolverines team with Jyaire Hill and Zeke Berry returning. Hill's scheme could help the unit take a step forward in 2026. The experience and depth of the unit make it a strong contender for a top-10 ranking. In my opinion, Michigan's secondary is a unit that could surprise many and make a deep run in the playoffs.
9. Texas A&M
Texas A&M's secondary unit is an SEC program with a legitimate lockdown program. The unit has the potential to flourish under Mike Elko, who has a track record of success. The addition of Tennessee transfer Rickey Gibson and former Colorado defender Tawfiq Byard further strengthens the unit. The Aggies' secondary unit is a unit that could surprise many and make a deep run in the playoffs.
10. Penn State
Penn State's secondary unit has retained key players like Audavion Collins and Daryus Dixson, and the addition of Marcus Neal from the transfer portal further strengthens the unit. The Nittany Lions have a blend of talent and a new staff, making them a team to watch. In my opinion, Penn State's secondary is a unit that could surprise many and make a deep run in the playoffs.
Deeper Analysis
McElroy's rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the 2026 college football season. The top-10 units are not just about individual talent; they are about the collective strength of a group that has been built around a strong foundation. The continuity and stability that many of these programs have brought to their secondary units will be a key factor in their success. The development of defensive backs under coaches like Blake Baker and Jay Hill is a testament to the strategic depth that these programs have built.
Conclusion
As the 2026 college football season approaches, the secondary units are sure to be a key area of focus. McElroy's rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the upcoming year. The top-10 units are not just about individual talent; they are about the collective strength of a group that has been built around a strong foundation. The continuity and stability that many of these programs have brought to their secondary units will be a key factor in their success. The development of defensive backs under coaches like Blake Baker and Jay Hill is a testament to the strategic depth that these programs have built. The 2026 season promises to be an exciting one, and the secondary units will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the games.
