Succeeding at CUT 26 Coins these schools could make your virtual coach an attractive candidate for Power Four jobs, mirroring real-life coaching moves.
Attach Yourself to a Rising Coach
College Football 26 also lets you play as real-life head coaches, giving you another way to approach Dynasty Mode. Choosing someone with upward mobility can change how your journey unfolds.
Jon Sumrall (Troy/Tulane) and Kenny Dillingham (Arizona State) are young stars in the coaching world.
Bob Chesney (James Madison) is coming off a nine-win debut season.
Jeff Monken (Army) has been solid for years and is often linked to bigger jobs.
Or go bold with a big name like Eddie George at Bowling Green.
This path adds a personal twist, letting you live out the career of a coach poised for bigger opportunities.
Programs in Transition
Realignment has made life tricky for several well-known schools. Cincinnati, Kentucky, Wisconsin, and West Virginia are all facing new challenges in stronger, restructured conferences.
Cincinnati has struggled since joining the Big 12.
Kentucky and Wisconsin now face tougher schedules without divisional play.
West Virginia continues to search for stability, even bringing back former coach Rich Rodriguez to help rebuild its identity.
Each of these programs has a rich history, but must navigate new terrain. They're ideal for players who want a realistic mix of tradition and challenge.
Breaking Through the Ceiling
Some schools are perennial contenders but haven't yet reached the ultimate prize. In College Football, these include Oregon, Ole Miss, and Texas AM.
Oregon has twice played for a national title but has yet to win it all.
Ole Miss has elevated its profile but is still searching for a playoff breakthrough.
Texas AM has immense resources, but hasn't delivered consistent success.
These are programs with the pieces to succeed-you just need to provide the final push. Having a lot of CFB 26 Coins provides a good boost.
The Juggernauts
Finally, if you're less interested in rebuilding and simply want to dominate, the top-tier programs are your safest bet: Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State.
Ohio State is fresh off a national championship.
Georgia continues to rule the SEC.
Alabama is still a powerhouse, even after a "down" 9-4 season.
This path offers the least resistance. You'll have access to elite recruits, stacked rosters, and a clear shot at championships. The tradeoff? Less challenge and less satisfaction compared to a true rebuild.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a team in Dynasty Mode isn't just about roster strength-it's about the story you want to tell. Do you want to grind for years to turn Delaware into a household name? Revive fallen giants like Stanford or Purdue? Build a résumé at James Madison before leaping to NCAA 26 Coins the Power Four? Or step straight into the shoes of Alabama and chase titles from day one?