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Adam Rittenberg, ESPN Senior Writer
When Joe Burrow led LSU to the national title in 2019, there was a growing sense that the team needed a transcendent quarterback to reach the top of the sport.
The defense immediately shut down that idea.
With the exception of 2020, when Alabama won the championship in a shortened season behind wide receiver DeVonta Smith and others who won the Heisman Trophy, defense has been the main driver of title teams. The University of Georgia started that trend in 2021 with one of the best defenses in college football history, suffocating opponents en route to its first national championship since 1980. The Bulldogs followed up that effort with another defense-backed title in 2022 before the University of Michigan ended the league's 26-year run. The championship drought occurred behind a defense that led the FBS in points allowed (10.4) and yards allowed (247 ypg).
The Wolverines derailed Washington's powerful offense in the title game, winning 31-13 despite only 10 completions and 140 yards from their own quarterback JJ McCarthy.
Defense remains important in college football, but which units will be the most effective over the next three seasons?
Georgia's defense remains almost on autopilot under coach Kirby Smart as the team seeks its third national title in four years. Other FPR defensive mainstays like Clemson, Iowa and Notre Dame also remain strong prospects. The University of Michigan lost several standout players and an entire defensive staff from its championship team, and will now be coached by longtime NFL guru Wink Martindale. Alabama and Penn State are also among the units experiencing some kind of transition in both personnel and coaching. There were some great defenses that would lay off a lot of personnel in 2023, including UCLA, Ohio State, Tennessee, and Missouri.
Transfer portals are becoming an increasingly important factor in shaping these predictions. Texas, Ohio State, Ole Miss, Oregon State and Louisville all added notable defensive transfers this winter, with Florida State digging into the portal more than almost any other team as well. ing. Given roster fluctuations, I focused on coaching and continuity when cleaning up the roster.
Let's take a look at the future power rankings of last year's defense. So check out the latest Top 25 through the 2026 season.
