Before NIL, college football rebuilds required patience. Now coaches are under a different microscope and no longer need multiple recruiting cycles to build a winning roster.
In 2026, a competent coach with the right vision and resources can completely change a roster and a program in a single offseason. With that in mind, CBS Sports writer Cody Nigel turned his attention toward the programs expected to make the biggest improvements in his latest article.
Nine teams enter the upcoming season with preseason win totals at least 2.5 games higher than their 2025 regular-season records. Seven of those programs will have a new head coach leading the way.
Many of the teams featured on the list had rough seasons in 2025, leaving plenty of room for improvement in the upcoming campaign. Among those programs is the Florida Gators, which is expected to take a significant step forward in 2026 under Jon Sumrall after falling short of expectations last season.
Florida has a projected win total of 7.5, a potential mark that could allow the Gators to make short-term history. The program has not hit eight wins in six years, heightening the expectations for Sumrall’s first season.
Orange and Blue’s mark of 7.5 projected wins is the highest amongst SEC teams looking to bounce back next season.
The Gators return nine starters despite losing seven to the NFL draft, but with a new head coach and key portal additions, they should certainly be a team to rebound following last season.
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida football among college football’s rebound teams this season
Reporting by Michael Trim Jr, Gators Wire / Gators Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Michael Trim Jr, Gators Wire | USA TODAY Network
