Jumbo Package: Phil Steele is bullish on the 2026 Tide

Phil Steele is projecting a strong 2026 season for Alabama, putting the Crimson Tide in the playoff picture and ranking them No. 1 as his “surprise team.” In his preseason ballot, Steele had Alabama at No. 8 nationally, despite other outlets predicting a miss of the College Football Playoff. He pointed to the quarterback situation as a key swing factor, highlighting the competition between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell to replace Ty Simpson. Steele also focused on Alabama’s offensive line coach Adrian Klemm, after replacing Chris Kapilovic, amid major roster turnover and last-place rushing results in the SEC. Overall, it’s a confidence bet after the SEC title-game loss.