As the 2026 college football season approaches, the anticipation is palpable. With training camp just around the corner, the buzz is already building, and ESPN's Greg McElroy has ranked the top 10 secondary units in college football. In this article, I will delve into McElroy's rankings, offering my own analysis and commentary on each unit, exploring the factors that make them stand out, and providing a deeper understanding of the talent and strategy at play. From the top-ranked Notre Dame to the underdogs like Penn State, each unit has its own story to tell, and I will provide a comprehensive breakdown of what makes them tick.
Notre Dame: The Cornerback Advantage
In my opinion, Notre Dame's secondary unit is the cream of the crop, and it's easy to see why. With Leonard Moore at the helm, the Irish have the best cornerback in college football, and that's a statement that can't be overstated. Moore's impact goes beyond the stats; he plays bigger than the numbers suggest, and his presence alone elevates the entire unit. The fact that Notre Dame has six defensive backs with starting-level experience before fall camp even opens is a testament to the program's depth and talent. This unit is not just a collection of players; it's a cohesive force, and that's what makes them so formidable.
Alabama: Continuity and Violence
Alabama's secondary unit is a force to be reckoned with, and the return of Bray Hubbard and Keon Sabb is a significant boost. The Crimson Tide's defense gave up just 19 points per game last season, and with continuity under Kane Wommack, they are poised to continue their success. Wommack's emphasis on 'violence' in practice is a refreshing change, and it's clear that he believes in the talent he has. The addition of Zabien Brown further strengthens the unit, and with Hubbard and Sabb leading the way, Alabama is a top-tier contender in the secondary rankings.
Texas Tech: The Big 12's Best
Texas Tech's secondary unit was one of the best in the Big 12 last season, and with the return of Brice Pollock and Amier Boyd-Matthews, they are set to continue their dominance. The Red Raiders' pass rush is a key factor in their success, and with the addition of new talent, they are poised to make a run at the top spot. Joey McGuire's defense is built around the secondary, and with the presence of a strong defensive line, Texas Tech is a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12.
Georgia: The Question Mark at Safety
Georgia's secondary unit is a solid contender, but the question mark at the second safety spot opposite KJ Bolden is a concern. The Bulldogs will still be strong in the back end, but the competition for that spot is not settled just yet. If one of those players steps up and asserts themselves, Georgia has a legitimate argument to be in the top two on this list. The continuity and depth of the unit are a testament to the program's success, and with Bolden leading the way, Georgia is a force to be reckoned with.
LSU: The Track Record of Development
LSU's secondary unit is a testament to the program's track record of developing defensive backs. With the addition of Ty Benefield, the Tigers are poised to continue their success. Blake Baker has a proven history of developing elite defensive backs, and the pitch to Benefield was the same one made to every elite defensive back who has walked through the door in Baton Rouge. The unit has immediate production and massive developmental upside, making LSU a top-5 contender in the secondary rankings.
Ohio State: The Buckeyes Reload
Ohio State's secondary unit is a separate entity from its individual players, and with the return of Jaylen McClain and Jermaine Mathews, as well as the addition of Earl Little Jr., they are poised to continue their success. The Buckeyes reload rather than rebuild, and with the depth and talent they have, they are a top-6 contender. The secondary infrastructure is a key factor in their success, and with the continuity and experience they have, Ohio State is a force to be reckoned with.
Texas A&M: The SEC's Lockdown Program
Texas A&M's secondary unit is a lockdown program, and with Dezz Ricks leading the way, they are poised to continue their success. The addition of Tennessee transfer Rickey Gibson and former Colorado defender Tawfiq Byard further strengthens the unit. Mike Elko's third year in the system will help, and with the continuity and talent they have, Texas A&M is a top-9 contender.
Michigan: The Experience Factor
Michigan's secondary unit is a solid contender, and with Kyle Whittingham taking over as defensive coordinator, they are poised to make a run at the top spot. Jay Hill's scheme could help them take a step forward, and with Jyaire Hill and Zeke Berry returning, they have continuity and experience on their side. The unit checks in at No. 8, and the experience is a big reason why.
Oregon: The Track Record of Development
Oregon's secondary unit is a testament to the program's track record of development. Despite losing Dillon Thieneman and Jadon Canady to the NFL, the Ducks reloaded with Koi Perich and Carl Williams out of the transfer portal. The program's ability to develop talent is well-known, and with the continuity and experience they have, Oregon is a top-7 contender.
Penn State: The New Staff and Talent
Penn State's secondary unit is a solid contender, and with new head coach Matt Campbell coming in, they have a fresh start. The Nittany Lions retained players like Audavion Collins and Daryus Dixson, and with the addition of Marcus Neal, they have a blend of talent and experience. The new staff and the talent they have coming in make Penn State a top-10 contender.
In conclusion, McElroy's rankings provide a fascinating insight into the talent and strategy at play in college football's secondary units. From the top-ranked Notre Dame to the underdogs like Penn State, each unit has its own story to tell, and with the 2026 season just around the corner, the anticipation is palpable. As a fan of the sport, I can't wait to see how these units perform and how the rankings shake out. The buzz is building, and the excitement is palpable, and I for one am ready to see the action unfold.
