Sleeper teams from each Power 4 conference: Who will exceed expectations this college football season?
Virginia Tech, Houston, Washington and Mississippi State lead the 2026 college football sleeper teams poised to upset the Power 4 conference order.
TL;DR
- Virginia Tech is identified as an ACC sleeper due to strong returning production, the addition of coach James Franklin, and an experienced quarterback.
- Houston is highlighted as a Big 12 dark horse with coach Willie Fritz, an improving defense, and an experienced roster, potentially challenging Texas Tech.
- Washington is expected to perform well in the Big Ten under coach Jedd Fisch, with a dynamic quarterback and strong returning production, benefiting from a manageable schedule.
- Mississippi State is seen as an SEC sleeper with coach Jeff Lebby, a talented roster, and a promising young quarterback, capable of spoiling other teams' seasons.
- The article emphasizes that while championship contenders may be clear on paper, 'paper never played a football game,' suggesting that upsets and surprises are likely.