These schools all have proud traditions and flashes of CUT 26 Coins past success. The challenge lies in restoring them to relevance in conferences that won't make things easy.
Stepping Stone Schools
If your goal is to climb the coaching ladder rather than stay in one place forever, look for programs that set you up for the next big job. Schools like James Madison, UNLV, and Washington State are prime examples.
James Madison has a strong roster and the talent to dominate the Sun Belt.
UNLV is on the rise in the Mountain West and is a great platform for advancement.
Washington State has a track record of producing coaches who get hired away.
Succeeding at 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 A&M.
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 A&M 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 the Power Four? Or step straight into the shoes of Alabama and chase titles from day one?
Whatever your preference, College Football 26 gives you the tools to shape your own coaching legacy. The question is: which road will you take?
If you're jumping into College Football 26 for the first time or returning after a break, the game can feel overwhelming. Passing, running, defensive schemes, and new mechanics all require practice and strategy. To CUT 26 Coins for sale help you get started, here are 10 beginner tips that will quickly improve your skills and help you win more games.