Washington Huskies miss CFP in early bowl projection for 2026 season

The Washington Huskies are expected to miss the College Football Playoff in an early bowl projection released Monday.

What happened?

The projection, based on current form and schedule strength, places Washington outside the top four teams in the CFP rankings. That means the Huskies would not earn an automatic berth in the four-team playoff field.

Head coach Jedd Fisch and his staff are already looking ahead to the 2026 season opener against the Washington State Cougars on September 6. The Cougars remain the Huskies’ biggest rival in the Pac-12’s final days before the Big Ten move.

Why it matters for Washington Huskies

Missing the CFP would mark a step back after Washington’s strong 2025 campaign. The Huskies finished 11-2 last season and beat Texas in the Sugar Bowl. A repeat playoff run would require another elite regular season.

The early projection also signals the challenge ahead in the Big Ten. The league’s expanded slate and stiffer competition could push Washington to the back of the pack.

What comes next?

Washington opens the 2026 slate at home against Washington State on September 6. The game kicks off the Huskies’ first season in the Big Ten after years in the Pac-12.

Jedd Fisch’s squad must prove the projection wrong with a fast start. A loss to the Cougars would only tighten the screws on the playoff chase.

How the Huskies can climb back

Washington needs to lock down key wins early. Road trips to Michigan State and Penn State loom in September and October. Those games will test the Huskies’ depth and talent.

The offensive line must hold up under pressure. The defense has to force turnovers and limit explosive plays. The margin for error shrinks in the Big Ten.