2026 College Football Predictions: Sun Belt Conference

Another conference that saw some changes this off-season. Texas State is out and they are replaced by Louisiana Tech. If the SBC can convince LSU and Tulane to join, they could have a solid Louisiana division. Old Dominion returns five starters from one of the best defenses in the conference. As long as Ricky Rahne finds a way to score points, the Monarchs should be in the hunt. 

This conference still belongs to James Madison. Even with another new coach, I think they are still the team to beat. Billy Napier should do fine as the head coach, he was good in this conference with Louisiana. Over on the other side, I think the Ragin’ Cajuns will be the best team in the West Division, but that side could be a total mess.

Intriguing Team: Coastal Carolina. The Chanticleers brought in Ryan Beard as their new head coach. He did well with Missouri State, and the hope is he can turn things around in Conway.