By Adeniyi Precious 
Tennessee football had a strong run, with their second ten-win season in three years and their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance. Unfortunately, they were knocked out in the first round by Ohio State, who eventually took home the National Championship. But the Vols are already eyeing a return to the playoff next season.
However, ESPN’s early 2026 playoff predictions aren’t looking too favorable for Tennessee. Despite their recent success, they’re left off the list of projected playoff teams. In their place, four other SEC teams are expected to make the 12-team field.
Ohio State is ranked No. 1 as they try to defend their title, followed by Texas, Clemson, BYU, Penn State, Notre Dame, Georgia, Oregon, LSU, South Carolina, Iowa State, and Boise State.
Teams like Texas, Clemson, and Penn State are expected to stay near the top, with a solid shot at dethroning Ohio State. South Carolina is also gaining attention as a popular pick for 2026, with their QB Lenorris Sellars returning to lead the charge.
Tennessee faces some challenges in making a return to the playoff. They’ve lost key players on the offensive line and their top rusher, Dylan Sampson. However, quarterback Nico Iamaleava is back, though the offense will have a new look.
Even with all the changes, Tennessee’s head coach Josh Heupel isn’t backing down. He’s led the Vols to 37 wins in just four years and believes his team will be back in the playoff picture next season.