The College Football News Preview 2021 preseason college football rankings with top players, games, and predicted finishes for all 130 teams.
The CFN preseason rankings are about how good the teams appear to be going into fall camp. It’s about the right now and NOT about the projected finish, but …
Each team’s preseason prediction is added. Remember, that’s about the schedule and timing as much as team talent and depth – records and rankings don’t always correspond thanks to the other factors.
Also listed is every team’s top player, past rankings, and key September game. The opponent might not be the toughest to deal with in the first month, but it’s the one must-win early game.
Contact @ColFootballNews
CFN Preview 2021 Rankings
All 130 Team Previews
76-100 | 51-75 | 26-50 | 11-25 | Top 10
2021 CFN Rankings By Conference
ACC | Big Ten | Big 12 | Pac-12 | SEC
AAC | C-USA | Ind | MAC | M-West | Sun Belt
CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings
130. UMass Minutemen
Player You Need to Know: CB Josh Wallace, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Eastern Michigan
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 0-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 126
2020 CFN Final Rank: 127
2019 CFN Final Rank: 130
UMass Preview | Schedule
129. UConn Huskies
Player You Need to Know: LB Omar Fortt, Sr
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Army
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 0-0
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 130
2020 CFN Final Rank: Not Ranked
2019 CFN Final Rank: 126
UConn Preview | Schedule
128. Old Dominion Monarchs
Player You Need to Know: LB Jordan Young, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Buffalo
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 0-0
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 121
2020 CFN Final Rank: Not Ranked
2019 CFN Final Rank: 125
ODU Preview | Schedule
127. Bowling Green Falcons
Player You Need to Know: RB Terion Stewart, RFr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 South Alabama
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 0-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 125
2020 CFN Final Rank: 126
2019 CFN Final Rank: 124
BGSU Preview | Schedule
126. New Mexico State Aggies
Player You Need to Know: OT Sage Doxtater, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at New Mexico
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 0-0
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 128
2020 CFN Final Rank: Not Ranked
2019 CFN Final Rank: 127
New Mexico Preview | Schedule
125. Akron Zips
Player You Need to Know: RB Teon Dollard, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Temple
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 1-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 129
2020 CFN Final Rank: 123
2019 CFN Final Rank: 129
Akron Preview | Schedule
124. ULM Warhawks
Player You Need to Know: LB Traveion Webster, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Troy
2021 Preseason Prediction: 1-11
2020 Record: 0-10
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 124
2020 CFN Final Rank: 124
2019 CFN Final Rank: 100
ULM Preview | Schedule
123. UTEP Miners
Player You Need to Know: DE Praise Amaewhule, Soph
September Key Game: Sept. 25 New Mexico
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 3-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 127
2020 CFN Final Rank: 121
2019 CFN Final Rank: 128
UTEP Preview | Schedule
122. South Alabama Jaguars
Player You Need to Know: QB Jake Bentley, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Southern Miss
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 4-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 123
2020 CFN Final Rank: 108
2019 CFN Final Rank: 119
South Alabama Preview | Schedule
121. Northern Illinois Huskies
Player You Need to Know: CB Jordan Gandy, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Wyoming
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 0-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 117
2020 CFN Final Rank: 122
2019 CFN Final Rank: 92
NIU Preview | Schedule
120. Rice Owls
Player You Need to Know: WR Bradley Rozner, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Houston
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 2-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 116
2020 CFN Final Rank: 106
2019 CFN Final Rank: 115
Rice Preview | Schedule
119. Charlotte 49ers
Player You Need to Know: WR Victor Tucker, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Middle Tennessee
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 2-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 115
2020 CFN Final Rank: 116
2019 CFN Final Rank: 93
Charlotte Preview | Schedule
118. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders
Player You Need to Know: S Reed Blankenship, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at UTSA
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 3-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 102
2020 CFN Final Rank: 119
2019 CFN Final Rank: 107
MTSU Preview | Schedule
117. Eastern Michigan Eagles
Player You Need to Know: LB Terry Myrick, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Texas State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 2-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 113
2020 CFN Final Rank: 107
2019 CFN Final Rank: 80
EMU Preview | Schedule
116. Southern Miss Golden Eagles
Player You Need to Know: LB Hayes Maples, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Troy
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 3-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 98
2020 CFN Final Rank: 117
2019 CFN Final Rank: 68
USM Preview | Schedule
115. FIU Golden Panthers
Player You Need to Know: CB Rishard Dames, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Texas State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 0-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 110
2020 CFN Final Rank: 125
2019 CFN Final Rank: 85
FIU Preview | Schedule
114. Texas State Bobcats
Player You Need to Know: CB Jarron Morris, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at FIU
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 2-10
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 121
2020 CFN Final Rank: 111
2019 CFN Final Rank: 114
Texas State Preview | Schedule
113. Utah State Aggies
Player You Need to Know: S Shaq Bond, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Air Force
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 1-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 80
2020 CFN Final Rank: 114
2019 CFN Final Rank: 46
Utah State Preview | Schedule
112. Troy Trojans
Player You Need to Know: LB Carlton Martial, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Liberty
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 5-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 105
2020 CFN Final Rank: 84
2019 CFN Final Rank: 90
Troy Preview | Schedule
111. Ohio Bobcats
Player You Need to Know: RB De’Montre Tuggle, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Louisiana
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 2-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 96
2020 CFN Final Rank: 109
2019 CFN Final Rank: 51
Ohio Preview | Schedule
110. UNLV Rebels
Player You Need to Know: RB Charles Williams, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Fresno State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 0-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 109
2020 CFN Final Rank: 120
2019 CFN Final Rank: 106
UNLV Preview | Schedule
109. Miami University RedHawks
Player You Need to Know: DE Kameron Butler, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 at Cincinnati
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 2-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 111
2020 CFN Final Rank: 93
2019 CFN Final Rank: 47
MU Preview | Schedule
Related
Bowl Projections, College Football Playoff Predictions: Preseason Preview 2021
108. Central Michigan Chippewas
Player You Need to Know: DE Troy Hairston, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 FIU
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 3-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 107
2020 CFN Final Rank: 105
2019 CFN Final Rank: 71
CMU Preview | Schedule
107. Kent State Golden Flashes
Player You Need to Know: B Dustin Crum, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Maryland
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 3-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 106
2020 CFN Final Rank: 89
2019 CFN Final Rank: 66
Kent State Preview | Schedule
106. New Mexico Lobos
Player You Need to Know: QB Terry Wilson, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at UTEP
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 2-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 118
2020 CFN Final Rank: 95
2019 CFN Final Rank: 120
UNM Preview | Schedule
105. USF Bulls
Player You Need to Know: LB Antonio Grier, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 24 at BYU
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 1-8
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 101
2020 CFN Final Rank: 113
2019 CFN Final Rank: 104
USF Preview | Schedule
104. East Carolina Pirates
Player You Need to Know: CB JaQuan McMillian, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 2 Appalachian State (in Charlotte)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 3-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 91
2020 CFN Final Rank: 99
2019 CFN Final Rank: 108
East Carolina Preview | Schedule
103. Air Force Falcons
Player You Need to Know: LB Demonte Meeks, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at Navy
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 3-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 74
2020 CFN Final Rank: 80
2019 CFN Final Rank: 24
Air Force Preview | Schedule
102. North Texas Mean Green
Player You Need to Know: DT Dion Novel, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 UAB
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 4-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 108
2020 CFN Final Rank: 118
2019 CFN Final Rank: 111
North Texas Preview | Schedule
101. Florida Atlantic Owls
Player You Need to Know: DE Jaylen Joyner, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Georgia Southern
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 5-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 87
2020 CFN Final Rank: 101
2019 CFN Final Rank: 13
FAU Preview | Schedule
CFN Preview 2021 Rankings
All 130 Team Previews
76-100 | 51-75 | 26-50 | 11-25 | Top 10
NEXT: CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 100
CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 100
100. Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
Player You Need to Know: S BeeJay Williamson, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 SMU
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 5-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 89
2020 CFN Final Rank: 103
2019 CFN Final Rank: 43
La Tech Preview | Schedule
99. Buffalo Bulls
Player You Need to Know: RB Kevin Marks, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Coastal Carolina
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 6-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 83
2020 CFN Final Rank: 63
2019 CFN Final Rank: 39
Buffalo Preview | Schedule
98. Georgia State Panthers
Player You Need to Know: CB Quavian White, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Army
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 6-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 114
2020 CFN Final Rank: 77
2019 CFN Final Rank: 75
Georgia State Preview | Schedule
97. Arkansas State Red Wolves
Player You Need to Know: LB/DE Kivon Bennett, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Memphis
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 4-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 93
2020 CFN Final Rank: 112
2019 CFN Final Rank: 67
Arkansas State Preview | Schedule
96. Navy Midshipmen
Player You Need to Know: LB Diego Fagot, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Air Force
2021 Preseason Prediction: 3-9
2020 Record: 3-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 75
2020 CFN Final Rank: 88
2019 CFN Final Rank: 17
Navy Preview | Schedule
95. UTSA Roadrunners
Player You Need to Know: RB Sincere McCormick, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Middle Tennessee
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 7-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 119
2020 CFN Final Rank: 102
2019 CFN Final Rank: 118
UTSA Preview | Schedule
94. WKU Hilltoppers
Player You Need to Know: QB Bailey Zappe, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Indiana
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 5-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 97
2020 CFN Final Rank: 115
2019 CFN Final Rank: 40
WKU Preview | Schedule
93. Colorado State Rams
Player You Need to Know: DE Scott Patchan, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Toledo
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 1-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 86
2020 CFN Final Rank: 100
2019 CFN Final Rank: 109
CSU Preview | Schedule
92. Marshall Thundering Herd
Player You Need to Know: QB Grant Wells, RFr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 East Carolin
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 7-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 90
2020 CFN Final Rank: 67
2019 CFN Final Rank: 35
Marshall Preview | Schedule
91. Western Michigan Broncos
Player You Need to Know: DE Ali Fayad, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 San Jose State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 4-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 103
2020 CFN Final Rank: 97
2019 CFN Final Rank: 42
WMU Preview | Schedule
90. Ball State Cardinals
Player You Need to Know: LB Brandon Martin, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Toledo
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 7-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 92
2020 CFN Final Rank: 46
2019 CFN Final Rank: 83
BSU Preview | Schedule
Related
College Football News Preseason Win Total Projections For All 130 Teams: Preview 2021
89. Toledo Rockets
Player You Need to Know: LB Dyontae Johnson, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Ball State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 4-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 104
2020 CFN Final Rank: 98
2019 CFN Final Rank: 73
Toledo Preview | Schedule
88. Wyoming Cowboys
Player You Need to Know: LB Chad Muma, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Ball State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 2-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 76
2020 CFN Final Rank: 85
2019 CFN Final Rank: 48\
Wyoming Preview | Schedule
87. Georgia Southern Eagles
Player You Need to Know: CB Derrick Canteen, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Louisiana
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 8-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 84
2020 CFN Final Rank: 78
2019 CFN Final Rank: 55
Georgia Southern Preview | Schedule
86. Fresno State Bulldogs
Player You Need to Know: QB Jake Haener, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at UCLA
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 3-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 77
2020 CFN Final Rank: 96
2019 CFN Final Rank: 91
FSU Preview | Schedule
85. Army Black Knights
Player You Need to Know: LB Arik Smith, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 at Georgia State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 9-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 99
2020 CFN Final Rank: 66
2019 CFN Final Rank: 89
Army Preview | Schedule
84. Temple Owls
Player You Need to Know: WR Jadan Blue, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 at Rutgers
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 1-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 79
2020 CFN Final Rank: 65
2019 CFN Final Rank: 28
Temple Preview | Schedule
83. Duke Blue Devils
Player You Need to Know: LB Shaka Heyward, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Northwestern
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 2-9
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 51
2020 CFN Final Rank: 92
2019 CFN Final Rank: 88
Duke Preview | Schedule
82. UAB Blazers
Player You Need to Know: OT Sidney Wells, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at North Texas
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 6-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 82
2020 CFN Final Rank: 62
2019 CFN Final Rank: 58
UAB Preview | Schedule
81. Kansas Jayhawks
Player You Need to Know: LB/DE Kyron Johnson, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Baylor
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 0-9
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 72
2020 CFN Final Rank: 104
2019 CFN Final Rank: 117
Kansas Preview | Schedule
80. Tulsa Golden Hurricane
Player You Need to Know: DT Jaxon Player, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at Oklahoma State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 6-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 94
2020 CFN Final Rank: 39
2019 CFN Final Rank: 86
Tulsa Preview | Schedule
79. Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns
Player You Need to Know: DT Zi’Yon Hill, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Georgia Southern
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 10-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 81
2020 CFN Final Rank: 15
2019 CFN Final Rank: 14
Louisiana Preview | Schedule
78. Tulane Green Wave
Player You Need to Know: LB Dorian Williams, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 UAB
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 6-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 79
2020 CFN Final Rank: 65
2019 CFN Final Rank: 62
Tulane Preview | Schedule
77. Syracuse Orange
Player You Need to Know: LB Mikel Jones, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 24 Liberty
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 1-10
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 52
2020 CFN Final Rank: 94
2019 CFN Final Rank: 79
Syracuse Preview | Schedule
76. SMU Mustangs
Player You Need to Know: RB Ulysses Bentley, RFr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at TCU
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 7-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 88
2020 CFN Final Rank: 64
2019 CFN Final Rank: 28
SMU Preview | Schedule
CFN Preview 2021 Rankings
All 130 Team Previews | 101-130
51-75 | 26-50 | 11-25 | Top 10
NEXT: CFN 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 75
CFN 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 75
75. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers
Player You Need to Know: QB Grayson McCall, Soph
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Kansas
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 9
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 120
2020 CFN Final Rank: 12
2019 CFN Final Rank: 96
Coastal Carolina Preview | Schedule
74. Hawaii Rainbow Warriors
Player You Need to Know: LB Darius Muasau, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 San Jose State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-6
2020 Record: 5-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 78
2020 CFN Final Rank: 74
2019 CFN Final Rank: 32
Hawaii Preview | Schedule
73. Vanderbilt Commodores
Player You Need to Know: WR Cam Johnson, Sr
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Stanford
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 0-9
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 63
2020 CFN Final Rank: 91
2019 CFN Final Rank: 116
Vanderbilt Preview | Schedule
72. Arizona Wildcats
Player You Need to Know: OT Donovan Laie, Jr
September Key Game: Sept. 4 BYU (in Las Vegas)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 2-10
2020 Record: 0-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 64
2020 CFN Final Rank: 90
2019 CFN Final Rank: 105
Arizona Preview | Schedule
71. Memphis Tigers
Player You Need to Know: WR Calvin Austin, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Mississippi State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 8-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 60
2020 CFN Final Rank: 50
2019 CFN Final Rank: 9
Memphis Preview | Schedule
70. Houston Cougars
Player You Need to Know: CB Damarion Williams, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Texas Tech (in NRG)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 3-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 69
2020 CFN Final Rank: 86
2019 CFN Final Rank: 101
Houston Preview | Schedule
69. San Diego State Aztecs
Player You Need to Know: LB Caden McDonald, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Utah
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 4-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 61
2020 CFN Final Rank: 73
2019 CFN Final Rank: 30
SDSU Preview | Schedule
68. Illinois Fighting Illini
Player You Need to Know: LB Jake Hansen, Sr.
September Key Game: Aug. 28 Nebraska
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 2-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 70
2020 CFN Final Rank: 71
2019 CFN Final Rank: 69
Illinois Preview | Schedule
67. San Jose State Spartans
Player You Need to Know: DE Cade Hall, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Hawaii
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 7-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 100
2020 CFN Final Rank: 47
2019 CFN Final Rank: 95
SJSU Preview | Schedule
66. Maryland Terrapins
Player You Need to Know: OT Jaelyn Duncan, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Illinois
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 2-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 85
2020 CFN Final Rank: 52
2019 CFN Final Rank: 113
Maryland Preview | Schedule
65. Appalachian State Mountaineers
Player You Need to Know: CB Shaun Jolly, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 23 Marshall
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 9-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 62
2020 CFN Final Rank: 68
2019 CFN Final Rank: 6
ASU Preview | Schedule
64. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Player You Need to Know: LB Quez Jackson, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 North Carolina
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 3-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 65
2020 CFN Final Rank: 82
2019 CFN Final Rank: 122
Georgia Tech Preview | Schedule
Related
CFN College Football Preview 2021: All 130 Team Previews, Schedules, Rankings
63. BYU Cougars
Player You Need to Know: LB Keenan Pili, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Utah
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 11-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 66
2020 CFN Final Rank: 13
2019 CFN Final Rank: 34
BYU Preview | Schedule
62. Liberty Flames
Player You Need to Know: QB Malik Willis, Jr
September Key Game: Sept. 24 at Syracuse
2021 Preseason Prediction: 11-1
2020 Record: 10-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 112
2020 CFN Final Rank: 11
2019 CFN Final Rank: 65
Liberty Preview | Schedule
61. Boise State Broncos
Player You Need to Know: WR Khalil Shakir, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Utah State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 5-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 43
2020 CFN Final Rank: 49
2019 CFN Final Rank: 10
Boise State Preview | Schedule
60. Nevada Wolf Pack
Player You Need to Know: QB Carson Strong, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Kansas State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 7-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 95
2020 CFN Final Rank: 57
2019 CFN Final Rank: 74
Nevada Preview | Schedule
59. Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Player You Need to Know: LB Olakunie Fatukasi, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Michigan
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 3-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 85
2020 CFN Final Rank: 60
2019 CFN Final Rank: 123
Rutgers Preview | Schedule
58. Nebraska Cornhuskers
Player You Need to Know: LB JoJo Domann, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Michigan State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 3-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 47
2020 CFN Final Rank: 55
2019 CFN Final Rank: 93
Nebraska Preview | Schedule
57. Oregon State Beavers
Player You Need to Know: LB Avery Roberts, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 at Purdue
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 2-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 54
2020 CFN Final Rank: 51
2019 CFN Final Rank: 77
Oregon State Preview | Schedule
56. Washington State Cougars
Player You Need to Know: LB Jahad Woods, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 USC
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 1-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 46
2020 CFN Final Rank: 76
2019 CFN Final Rank: 76
Wazzu Preview | Schedule
55. Florida State Seminoles
Player You Need to Know: LB Amari Gainer, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Louisville
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 3-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 33
2020 CFN Final Rank: 83
2019 CFN Final Rank: 78
FSU Preview | Schedule
54. Michigan State Spartans
Player You Need to Know: S Xavier Henderson, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 at Northwestern
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 2-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 40
2020 CFN Final Rank: 59
2019 CFN Final Rank: 57
MSU Preview | Schedule
53. Purdue Boilermakers
Player You Need to Know: DE George Karlaftis, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Illinois
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 2-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 58
2020 CFN Final Rank: 61
2019 CFN Final Rank: 103
Purdue Preview | Schedule
52. Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Player You Need to Know: WR Jaquarii Roberson, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Florida State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 4-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 39
2020 CFN Final Rank: 40
2019 CFN Final Rank: 53
Wake Forest Preview | Schedule
51. Virginia Cavaliers
Player You Need to Know: S Joey Blount, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at North Carolina
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 5-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 31
2020 CFN Final Rank: 45
2019 CFN Final Rank: 31
Virginia Preview | Schedule
CFN Preview 2021 Rankings
All 130 Team Previews | 101-130
76-100 | 26-50 | 11-25 | Top 10
NEXT: CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 50
CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 50
50. Baylor Bears
Player You Need to Know: LB Terrel Bernard, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Iowa State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 2-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 42
2020 CFN Final Rank: 87
2019 CFN Final Rank: 12
Baylor Preview | Schedule
49. Louisville Cardinals
Player You Need to Know: CB Kei’Trel Clark, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Florida State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 4-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 32
2020 CFN Final Rank: 69
2019 CFN Final Rank: 37
Louisville Preview | Schedule
48. West Virginia Mountaineers
Player You Need to Know: DT Dante Stills, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Oklahoma
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 6-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 55
2020 CFN Final Rank: 43
2019 CFN Final Rank: 94
WVU Preview | Schedule
47. South Carolina Gamecocks
Player You Need to Know: RB Kevin Harris, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Kentucky
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 2-8
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 29
2020 CFN Final Rank: 81
2019 CFN Final Rank: 70
USC Preview | Schedule
46. Colorado Buffaloes
Player You Need to Know: LB Carson Wells, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Arizona State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 4-8
2020 Record: 4-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 59
2020 CFN Final Rank: 30
2019 CFN Final Rank: 81
Colorado Preview | Schedule
45. UCF Knights
Player You Need to Know: QB Dillon Gabriel, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Boise State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 6-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 30
2020 CFN Final Rank: 70
2019 CFN Final Rank: 19
UCF Preview | Schedule
44. Virginia Tech Hokies
Player You Need to Know: OG Lecitus Smith, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 2 North Carolina
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 5-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 16
2020 CFN Final Rank: 42
2019 CFN Final Rank: 44
Virginia Tech Preview | Schedule
43. Boston College Eagles
Player You Need to Know: WR Zay Flowers, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Missouri
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 6-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 67
2020 CFN Final Rank: 48
2019 CFN Final Rank: 84
BC Preview | Schedule
42. Missouri Tigers
Player You Need to Know: DE Trajan Jeffcoat, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at Kentucky
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 5-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 45
2020 CFN Final Rank: 33
2019 CFN Final Rank: 87
Missouri Preview | Schedule
41. Arkansas Razorbacks
Player You Need to Know: WR Treylon Burks, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Texas A&M (in Arlington
2021 Preseason Prediction: 5-7
2020 Record: 3-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 68
2020 CFN Final Rank: 34
2019 CFN Final Rank: 121
Arkansas Preview | Schedule
40. Kansas State Wildcats
Player You Need to Know: RB Deuce Vaughn, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Oklahoma State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 4-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 41
2020 CFN Final Rank: 58
2019 CFN Final Rank: 41
Kansas State Preview | Schedule
39. Minnesota Golden Gophers
Player You Need to Know: RB Mohamed Ibrahim, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Ohio State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 3-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 20
2020 CFN Final Rank: 53
2019 CFN Final Rank: 25
Minnesota Preview | Schedule
38. Mississippi State Bulldogs
Player You Need to Know: OT Charles Cross, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 LSU
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 4-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 24
2020 CFN Final Rank: 38
2019 CFN Final Rank: 56
Miss State Preview | Schedule
37. Tennessee Volunteers
Player You Need to Know: OT Darnell Wright, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Florida
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 3-7
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 28
2020 CFN Final Rank: 75
2019 CFN Final Rank: 36
Tennessee Preview | Schedule
36. Cal Golden Bears
Player You Need to Know: QB Chase Garbers, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Washington
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 1-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 38
2020 CFN Final Rank: 72
2019 CFN Final Rank: 61
Cal Preview | Schedule
35. Stanford Cardinal
Player You Need to Know: DE Thomas Booker, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 UCLA
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 4-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 35
2020 CFN Final Rank: 31
2019 CFN Final Rank: 98
Stanford Preview | Schedule
34. NC State Wolfpack
Player You Need to Know: LB Payton Wilson, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Clemson
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 8-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 44
2020 CFN Final Rank: 37
2019 CFN Final Rank: 112
NC State Preview | Schedule
33. Kentucky Wildcats
Player You Need to Know: S Yusuf Corker, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Missouri
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 5-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 25
2020 CFN Final Rank: 36
2019 CFN Final Rank: 45
Kentucky Preview | Schedule
32. Northwestern Wildcats
Player You Need to Know: S Brandon Joseph, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Michigan State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 7-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 53
2020 CFN Final Rank: 10
2019 CFN Final Rank: 110
Northwestern Preview | Schedule
31. Indiana Hoosiers
Player You Need to Know: WR Ty Fryfogle, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 at Iowa
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 6-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 49
2020 CFN Final Rank: 23
2019 CFN Final Rank: 64
Indiana Preview | Schedule
30. Pitt Panthers
Player You Need to Know: LB SirVocea Dennis, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at Tennessee
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 6-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 18
2020 CFN Final Rank: 41
2019 CFN Final Rank: 49
Pitt Preview | Schedule
29. Ole Miss Rebels
Player You Need to Know: QB Matt Corral, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 6 Louisville (in Atlanta)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 5-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 48
2020 CFN Final Rank: 22
2019 CFN Final Rank: 99
Ole Miss Preview | Schedule
28. Texas Tech Red Raiders
Player You Need to Know: QB Tyler Shough, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Texas
2021 Preseason Prediction: 6-6
2020 Record: 4-6
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 56
2020 CFN Final Rank: 79
2019 CFN Final Rank: 102
Texas Tech Preview | Schedule
27. TCU Horned Frogs
Player You Need to Know: DE Ochuan Mathis, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Cal
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 6-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 34
2020 CFN Final Rank: 44
2019 CFN Final Rank: 82
TCU Preview | Schedule
26. Miami Hurricanes
Player You Need to Know: S Bubba Bolden, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Alabama (in Atlanta)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 8-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 19
2020 CFN Final Rank: 20
2019 CFN Final Rank: 60
Miami Preview | Schedule
CFN Preview 2021 Rankings
All 130 Team Previews | 101-130
76-100 | 51-75 | 11-25 | Top 10
NEXT: CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 25
CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 25
25. Cincinnati Bearcats
Player You Need to Know: QB Desmond Ridder, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Indiana
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 9-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 50
2020 CFN Final Rank: 9
2019 CFN Final Rank: 22
Cincinnati Preview | Schedule
24. Michigan Wolverines
Player You Need to Know: LB Josh Ross, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Washington
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 2-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 10
2020 CFN Final Rank: 54
2019 CFN Final Rank: 26
Michigan Preview | Schedule
23. UCLA Bruins
Player You Need to Know: LB Caleb Johnson, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Stanford
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 3-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 57
2020 CFN Final Rank: 32
2019 CFN Final Rank: 97
UCLA Preview | Schedule
22. Oklahoma State Cowboys
Player You Need to Know: LB Malcolm Rodriguez, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Kansas State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 8-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 22
2020 CFN Final Rank: 19
2019 CFN Final Rank: 50
OSU Preview | Schedule
21. Iowa Hawkeyes
Player You Need to Know: RB Tyler Goodson, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Indiana
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 6-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 27
2020 CFN Final Rank: 17
2019 CFN Final Rank: 23
Iowa Preview | Schedule
2021 CFN Rankings By Conference
ACC | Big Ten | Big 12 | Pac-12 | SEC
AAC | C-USA | Ind | MAC | M-West | Sun Belt
20. Utah Utes
Player You Need to Know: LB Devin Lloyd, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at BYU
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 3-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 26
2020 CFN Final Rank: 27
2019 CFN Final Rank: 18
Utah Preview | Schedule
19. Arizona State Sun Devils
Player You Need to Know: QB Jayden Daniels, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Colorado
2021 Preseason Prediction: 8-4
2020 Record: 2-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 37
2020 CFN Final Rank: 35
2019 CFN Final Rank: 33
ASU Preview | Schedule
18. Texas Longhorns
Player You Need to Know: RB Bijan Robinson, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Texas Tech
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 7-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 14
2020 CFN Final Rank: 18
2019 CFN Final Rank: 29
Texas Preview | Schedule
17. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Player You Need to Know: S Kyle Hamilton, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Wisconsin (in Chicago)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 10-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 15
2020 CFN Final Rank: 5
2019 CFN Final Rank: 12
Notre Dame Preview | Schedule
16. USC Trojans
Player You Need to Know: LB/DE Drake Jackson, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Stanford
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 5-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 13
2020 CFN Final Rank: 24
2019 CFN Final Rank: 38
USC Preview | Schedule
15. Auburn Tigers
Player You Need to Know: RB Tank Bigsby, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Penn State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 7-5
2020 Record: 6-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 12
2020 CFN Final Rank: 21
2019 CFN Final Rank: 16
Auburn Preview | Schedule
14. Penn State Nittany Lions
Player You Need to Know: S Jaquan Brisker, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 at Wisconsin
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 4-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 8
2020 CFN Final Rank: 56
2019 CFN Final Rank: 5
Penn State Preview | Schedule
13. Washington Huskies
Player You Need to Know: LB/DE Zion Tupuola-Fetui, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at Michigan
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 3-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 21
2020 CFN Final Rank: 26
2019 CFN Final Rank: 27
Washington Preview | Schedule
12. North Carolina Tar Heels
Player You Need to Know: QB Sam Howell, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 2 at Virginia Tech
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 8-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 17
2020 CFN Final Rank: 14
2019 CFN Final Rank: 59
UNC Preview | Schedule
11. Iowa State Cyclones
Player You Need to Know: RB Breece Hall, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Iowa
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 9-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 36
2020 CFN Final Rank: 16
2019 CFN Final Rank: 63
Iowa State Preview | Schedule
CFN Preview 2021 Rankings
All 130 Team Previews | 101-130
76-100 | 51-75 | 26-50 | Top 10
NEXT: CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 10
CFN Preview 2021 Preseason College Football Rankings: Top 10
10. Wisconsin Badgers
Player You Need to Know: QB Graham Mertz, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Penn State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 4-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 11
2020 CFN Final Rank: 25
2019 CFN Final Rank: 11
Wisconsin Preview | Schedule
9. Florida Gators
Player You Need to Know: DE Zachary Carter, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 Alabama
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 8-4
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 7
2020 CFN Final Rank: 7
2019 CFN Final Rank: 20
Florida Preview | Schedule
8. Oregon Ducks
Player You Need to Know: DE/LB Kayvon Thibodeaux, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 at Ohio State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 9-3
2020 Record: 4-3
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 9
2020 CFN Final Rank: 28
2019 CFN Final Rank: 7
Oregon Preview | Schedule
7. LSU Tigers
Player You Need to Know: CB Derek Stingley Jr., Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 at Mississippi State
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 5-5
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 5
2020 CFN Final Rank: 29
2019 CFN Final Rank: 1
LSU Preview | Schedule
6. Ohio State Buckeyes
Player You Need to Know: WR Chris Olave, Sr.
September Key Game: Sept. 11 Oregon
2021 Preseason Prediction: 12-0
2020 Record: 7-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 1
2020 CFN Final Rank: 2
2019 CFN Final Rank: 2
Ohio State Preview | Schedule
5. Texas A&M Aggies
Player You Need to Know: RB/WR Ainias Smith, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 Arkansas (in Arlington
2021 Preseason Prediction: 10-2
2020 Record: 9-1
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 23
2020 CFN Final Rank: 4
2019 CFN Final Rank: 52
Texas A&M Preview | Schedule
4. Georgia Bulldogs
Player You Need to Know: QB JT Daniels, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Clemson (in Charlotte)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 11-1
2020 Record: 8-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 4
2020 CFN Final Rank: 8
2019 CFN Final Rank: 4
Georgia Preview | Schedule
3. Clemson Tigers
Player You Need to Know: DT Bryan Bresee, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 4 Georgia (in Charlotte)
2021 Preseason Prediction: 12-0
2020 Record: 10-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 3
2020 CFN Final Rank: 2
2019 CFN Final Rank: 3
Clemson Preview | Schedule
2. Oklahoma Sooners
Player You Need to Know: QB Spencer Rattler, Soph.
September Key Game: Sept. 25 West Virginia
2021 Preseason Prediction: 11-1
2020 Record: 9-2
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 6
2020 CFN Final Rank: 6
2019 CFN Final Rank: 8
Oklahoma Preview | Schedule
1. Alabama Crimson Tide
Player You Need to Know: LB Christian Harris, Jr.
September Key Game: Sept. 18 at Florida
2021 Preseason Prediction: 12-0
2020 Record: 13-0
2020 CFN Preseason Rank: 3
2020 CFN Final Rank: 1
2019 CFN Final Rank: 15
Alabama Preview | Schedule
CFN Preview 2021 Rankings
All 130 Team Previews | 101-130
76-100 | 51-75 | 26-50 | 11-25