The University of Washington just landed themselves a spot in the Preseason AP Top 25, rocking in at No. 17 for the 2026 college football season. Our Dawgs racked up 501 votes in the AP Poll, a sweet early nod that’s got folks talking. But while that’s a huge deal for the Purple and Gold, the wider college football world is already laser-focused on the top dogs.
Ohio State Takes the Crown, For Now
Look, it’s no shocker: Ohio State is hitting the ground running as the consensus No. 1 team across the board. They pulled off a clean sweep in both the AP Poll, released Monday, and the Coaches Poll, which dropped back on August 4. The Buckeyes were the top pick in both, locking in that No. 1 spot. The Sporting News Preseason Top 25 actually had defending national champion Indiana at No. 1, but when you average out all three rankings, Ohio State still sits firmly at the top. Following them, Georgia, those two-time defending SEC champs, landed at No. 2 overall in that consensus ranking, sitting at No. 3 in all three individual polls. Then it’s Oregon at No. 3, with Texas and Indiana tied up for fourth and fifth. Seriously, the Big Ten and SEC are dominating, snagging all three top five slots. Notre Dame and Miami round out the top seven in the overall consensus.
The Huskies’ Early Season Statement
So, what does this mean for our Huskies here in the Pacific Northwest? Landing at No. 17 in the AP Poll is solid, but the Coaches Poll put Washington just a bit lower, at No. 19 with 406 votes. That little gap between the polls? It’s exactly why we watch the games! The AP poll clearly sees a bit more in our Dawgs to start the season. It’s a statement, an early sign that Washington is on the radar. This isn’t just about showing up, it’s about building momentum, especially when you’re stacking up against the big names already owning the top spots.
This ranking sets the tone for the 2026 season. We’re talking about the opportunity to prove the AP voters right, to climb those polls, and show everyone what the Emerald City is all about on the gridiron. The season kicks off with the Huskies in a strong position, ready to battle and show exactly why they belong in the national conversation. Get ready, Dawg Nation, because it’s going to be a ride!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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