Whenever a new set of college football rankings drops, all eyes are firmly glued upon the top 10. After all, that vaunted position is often occupied by the sport's most notable programs — those that vie for national titles year in and year out.

After drawing so close to the College Football Playoff title game in 2025, Penn State continues to draw attention as a chief contender in 2026. ESPN's Mark Schlabach joined the list of national media that's high on the Nittany Lions, elevating them to No. 1 in his most recent college football rankings.

One new team sits above the rest in ESPN's updated college football rankings following spring practice and the closing of the spring transfer window.