Is Florida football a dark horse for the College Football Playoff?

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The first US LBM Coaches Poll of the 2026 season placed Florida just outside the top 25, forcing the Gators to prove they belong among college football's contenders. Though initial rankings are a good indicator of who the top contenders will be, the sport of college football will have everlasting upsets and surprises on Saturdays.

After the poll's release, The Athletic identified eight teams outside the preseason top 25 that could emerge as College Football Playoff contenders in 2026. Florida's de facto No. 27 ranking provides optimism that the Orange and Blue could break into the playoff picture if everything falls into place this season.

Florida has struggled in recent seasons, but first-year head coach Jon Sumrall brings a proven track record. He owns a 43-12 record in four seasons as a head coach and guided Tulane to the CFP last season.

Florida also hired offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner after he helped Georgia Tech rank among the nation's top 12 in offensive yards per game last season. The Gators also addressed key needs through the transfer portal, including quarterback Aaron Philo, who is competing with Tramell Jones Jr. for the starting job.

Whoever wins the job will inherit a deep supporting cast led by Jadan Baugh.

Matt Brown of The Athletic has Florida upsetting Georgia and Oklahoma to finish the regular season 10-2 and earn a spot in the College Football Playoff.

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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Is Florida football a dark horse for the College Football Playoff?

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