The 2026 college football season has officially begun, marking an exciting time for fans and players alike as teams take to the field over the Labor Day weekend. After a limited schedule in Week Zero, the action ramps up significantly, and several players are poised to make an impact in their opening games.
One of the standout players to watch is Missouri running back Jamal Roberts, who will lead the charge against Arkansas-Pine Bluff on Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET. Roberts, who served as a backup to All-American Ahmad Hardy last season, rushed for 753 yards and seven touchdowns on just 124 carries in 2025. With Hardy recovering from a gunshot wound sustained in the spring, Roberts is expected to take on the lead role in the backfield. Missouri enters the game as a heavy favorite, boasting a 54.5-point spread, which is the largest of Week 1.
Another player to keep an eye on is Indiana quarterback Josh Hoover, who will make his debut for the Hoosiers against North Texas on Saturday at noon ET. Hoover, a transfer from TCU, has an impressive track record, having thrown for over 70 touchdowns throughout his college career, including 29 in 2025 alone. North Texas, under new head coach Neal Brown, returns only three starters on defense and allowed an average of 5.4 yards per play last season. Given these factors, Hoover is well-positioned to post significant numbers in his first game with Indiana.
Alabama's Keelon Russell is another intriguing prospect as he prepares to make his first career start against East Carolina on Saturday at noon ET. Russell, a former five-star recruit, was named the starting quarterback for the Crimson Tide after a competitive preseason. Known for his dual-threat capabilities, Russell's playing style resembles that of former Alabama star Jalen Milroe. His performance could be crucial in revitalizing an Alabama run game that struggled at times last season.
Houston running back Makhi Hughes is also set to make waves when the Cougars host Oregon State at noon ET on Saturday. After a standout career at Tulane, Hughes transferred to Oregon in 2025 but struggled to find his footing, recording only 70 yards on 17 carries. Now back under the guidance of Willie Fritz, who originally recruited him to Tulane, Hughes has the potential to return to his previous form, especially with quarterback Conner Weigman leading the offense.
Ohio State's Chris Henry Jr., the son of former NFL receiver Chris Henry, will debut for the Buckeyes against Ball State on Saturday at 12:30 p.m. ET. As the top wide receiver recruit in the 2026 class, Henry stands at 6-foot-5 and is expected to make an immediate impact alongside star receiver Jeremiah Smith, drawing the attention of opposing defenses.
Oregon's Evan Stewart, who missed the entire 2025 season due to injury, is back and ready to contribute as the Ducks take on Boise State at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. Stewart had a productive first season with Oregon in 2024 and is anticipated to play a vital role in the Ducks' national championship aspirations this year.
Finally, Michigan's Savion Hiter, a highly touted freshman running back, is expected to see significant playing time against Western Michigan at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. Hiter, who was the top running back recruit in the 2026 class, has received praise from new head coach Kyle Whittingham, suggesting he could be a key player for the Wolverines this season.
As the 2026 college football season unfolds, these players are just a few of the many who could shape the landscape of college football in the weeks to come. With exciting matchups and promising talent on display, fans are in for a thrilling opening weekend.
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