As the 2026 college football season approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Among the many factors that will shape the upcoming year, the secondary units are particularly intriguing. ESPN's Greg McElroy has ranked the top 10 secondary units, and his insights offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the season. In this article, I will delve into McElroy's rankings, providing my own commentary and analysis on each unit's strengths, weaknesses, and potential impact on the season.
The Top 10 Secondary Units
1. Notre Dame
What makes Notre Dame's secondary stand out is the presence of Leonard Moore, who McElroy considers the best cornerback in college football. Moore's ability to play bigger than his statistics suggest is a testament to his talent and leadership. The Irish have also added pieces around him while retaining key players like Christian Gray and Adon Shuler. This unit is built to dominate, and McElroy's ranking of them as the top secondary unit is well-deserved.
2. Alabama
Alabama's secondary is no stranger to success, and McElroy's ranking of them at No. 2 is a reflection of their continuity and depth. The return of Bray Hubbard, Keon Sabb, and Zabien Brown, along with the leadership of Kane Wommack, sets the stage for another dominant season. The Crimson Tide's ability to reload rather than rebuild is a testament to their program's strength, and McElroy's commentary highlights the fear that opposing teams will face when facing this secondary.
3. Texas Tech
Texas Tech's secondary was one of the best in the Big 12 last season, and they have managed to retain key players like Brice Pollock and Amier Boyd-Matthews. The Red Raiders' ability to bolster their pass rush and maintain continuity makes them a force to be reckoned with. McElroy's ranking of them at No. 3 is a nod to their talent and potential for success in the upcoming season.
4. Georgia
Georgia's secondary is led by KJ Bolden, who is returning after a strong performance last season. However, the Bulldogs face a challenge at the second safety spot, which is yet to be settled. McElroy's ranking of them at No. 4 is a reflection of their strengths and the potential for growth in the upcoming season. The competition for the second safety spot could be a turning point for Georgia's secondary.
5. LSU
LSU's secondary is a testament to the program's commitment to developing defensive backs. Under the leadership of Blake Baker, the Tigers have produced talented players like Mansoor Delane and Ty Benefield. McElroy's ranking of them at No. 5 is a nod to their immediate production and developmental upside. The pitch that LSU made to elite defensive backs is a reflection of their program's strength and potential for success.
6. Ohio State
Ohio State's secondary is a separate entity from its individual players, and McElroy's ranking of them at No. 6 is a testament to their infrastructure. The Buckeyes' ability to reload rather than rebuild is a reflection of their program's strength, and the return of players like Jaylen McClain and Jermaine Mathews sets the stage for another successful season. McElroy's commentary highlights the remarkable nature of Ohio State's secondary, which is a force to be reckoned with.
7. Oregon
Oregon's secondary has a track record of development, and McElroy's ranking of them at No. 7 is a nod to their ability to assemble talent. The Ducks' system for defensive backs earns them the benefit of the doubt, and the addition of Koi Perich and Carl Williams from the transfer portal further strengthens their unit. McElroy's commentary highlights the program's strength and potential for success.
8. Michigan
Michigan's secondary is led by Jay Hill, who will implement his scheme and build upon the continuity from last year's team. The Wolverines have players like Jyaire Hill and Zeke Berry returning, and McElroy's ranking of them at No. 8 is a reflection of their experience and potential for growth. Hill's scheme could be a turning point for Michigan's secondary.
9. Texas A&M
Texas A&M's secondary is anchored by Dezz Ricks, who is returning to lead the group in 2026. The Aggies have added Tennessee transfer Rickey Gibson and former Colorado defender Tawfiq Byard, and McElroy's ranking of them at No. 9 is a nod to their potential for success under Mike Elko. The continuity in Elko's system could be a key factor in the Aggies' success.
10. Penn State
Penn State's secondary has retained key players like Audavion Collins and Daryus Dixson, and the addition of Marcus Neal from the transfer portal further strengthens their unit. McElroy's ranking of them at No. 10 is a reflection of their talent and potential for success under new head coach Matt Campbell. The Nittany Lions' ability to earn their way onto the list is a testament to their program's strength.
Deeper Analysis
McElroy's rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the 2026 college football season. Each unit has its strengths and weaknesses, and the rankings reflect the potential for success in the upcoming year. The secondary units are a key factor in determining the outcome of games, and McElroy's insights provide a valuable perspective on the talent and strategy that will shape the season.
In my opinion, the top three units (Notre Dame, Alabama, and Texas Tech) are the most likely to dominate the season. Their talent, continuity, and strategy make them the favorites to emerge as champions. However, the other units on the list are not to be underestimated, as they have the potential to make a significant impact on the season. The rankings are a reflection of McElroy's expertise and provide a valuable perspective on the talent and strategy that will define the 2026 college football season.
As the season approaches, the buzz is building, and the anticipation is palpable. The secondary units are a key factor in determining the outcome of games, and McElroy's rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into the talent and strategy that will define the season. The rankings are a testament to the strength of college football and provide a valuable perspective on the talent and strategy that will shape the upcoming year.
