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Did Michigan deserve that last second? We welcome college football back with all the absurdity it brings
Confirmed
In Short: College football kicked off with a mix of new rules and standout performances, including a crucial X-factor that could sway betting outcomes.
One of the most controversial rules in college football, targeting, remains in the rulebook for the 2026 season. According to Steve Shaw, the NCAA secretary-rules editor for football and national coordinator of officials, "One of the biggest changes we've made for the good, once it goes to replay, you must confirm all aspects of targeting." This rule is expected to create confusion and frustration among teams and fans, as targeting calls evolve with the game.
In the past, a player ruled out for targeting in the second half faced an automatic disqualification for the rest of that game and the first half of the following game. However, this year, if a player is ruled out for targeting in the second half, they do not face the first-half suspension. This change is aimed at ensuring fair play but may still lead to confusion during games.
As teams kicked off their seasons, two wide receivers quickly established themselves as top contenders for the best in college football. Miami's Toney and Ohio State's Smith both had impressive performances, with Smith racking up 151 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 18.9 yards per reception. Fans weighed in on ESPN's X post about who the best wide receiver is, with opinions divided.
The Big Ten Conference is currently the strongest in college football, according to Foxsports. As the season progresses, this conference is expected to continue its dominance. Additionally, the NFL Draft saw Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza selected by the Las Vegas Raiders with the No.
The 2026 college football season is off to a promising start, with new rules, standout performances, and the usual excitement that fans have come to expect.
What's confirmed
What's still developing
- In addition to going Under on the point total, he's found a crucial X-factor that makes one side of the spread a must-back.
- Lane Kiffin makes his LSU head coaching debut as the 11th-ranked Tigers battle the Clemson Tigers in a Week 1 college football matchup on Saturday.
- LSU picks, check out what SportsLine college football expert Eric Cohen has to say.
- Entering the 2026 season, Cohen was 90-68 (57 percent) on college football ATS picks, returning $1,636 to $100 players on college football betting sites.
- Targeting in college football, essentially, is when a player initiates forcible contact against an opponent beyond a routine legal tackle, block or play on the ball.