University of Miami Football Takes No. 1 AP Ranking
The Hurricanes ascended to the top of the AP Top 25 poll following a perfect start to their season.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you believe early-season college football rankings are an accurate measure of a team's success?
The University of Miami football team has claimed the No. 1 spot in the AP Top 25 poll. This achievement follows a strong 6-0 start to the season and a recent victory over Florida State.
Why it matters
The Hurricanes return to the top position for the first time since 2002 after losses by previously top-ranked Georgia and Notre Dame. The team currently maintains a 4-0 record in Atlantic Coast Conference play.
The team holds a 6-0 overall record and a 4-0 conference record. Miami previously reached the No. 1 spot in the AP poll in 2002.
The players
University of Miami
This is a private research university located in Coral Gables that competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
Florida State
This is a public university and a long-time athletic rival of the University of Miami.
Pittsburgh
This is a public research university that participates in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
The details
The Hurricanes rose to the top of the rankings after losses by Georgia and Notre Dame, who previously held the top two spots. The coaching staff and players continue to emphasize a 1-0 focus for every individual task and upcoming game.
Timeline
Miami previously reached the No. 1 spot in 2002.
The Hurricanes defeated Florida State last weekend.
The team officially returned to the No. 1 spot in the AP poll on October 20, 2026.
The University of Miami will face Pittsburgh on October 24, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This No. 1 ranking significantly alters the team's standing as they navigate the remainder of the season. It marks a return to prominence for the program, which finished last season at No. 2 following a loss in the national championship.
The Hurricanes must maintain their momentum in the upcoming game against Pittsburgh to hold their position in the standings. Fans and analysts will monitor if the team can sustain its 4-0 conference record as the season progresses toward the final rankings.
The takeaway
The team's success is tied to their strict 1-0 internal philosophy applied to every game. Supporters should keep an eye on how this intensity holds up as the schedule continues through the final weeks of the season.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, check out the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mail Online.
Live Poll
Do you believe early-season college football rankings are an accurate measure of a team's success?
