Joel Klatt, a sports analyst and commentator, offers his insights into the stock market of college football teams for the 2026 season. He provides a detailed analysis of which teams to buy and sell, considering factors such as coaching changes, talent acquisitions, and past performance.
Buying Stocks
UCLA: Klatt is bullish on UCLA, praising the hiring of Bob Chesney, who led James Madison to the College Football Playoff. With a returning quarterback and over 40 incoming transfers, UCLA is poised for a rise in the rankings.
Florida: The Gators are also on Klatt's buy list. He highlights the arrival of Jon Sumrall, who guided Tulane to the CFP, and his impressive 43-12 record as a head coach. Florida's ability to attract and retain talent makes it a strong contender in the SEC.
LSU: Despite the recent turmoil, Klatt believes in Lane Kiffin's ability to turn things around at LSU. Kiffin's track record of success at Ole Miss, where he brought in numerous transfers and rebuilt the program, makes him a valuable asset.
Penn State: With the appointment of Matt Campbell, Klatt sees potential in Penn State. Campbell's success at Iowa State and his ability to utilize resources effectively make him a strategic choice for the Nittany Lions.
Virginia Tech: Klatt is optimistic about Virginia Tech under James Franklin. He argues that Franklin's coaching prowess and his ability to raise the bar at Penn State will translate to Blacksburg, potentially leading to national title aspirations.
Selling Stocks
Ole Miss: Klatt is skeptical about Ole Miss's prospects, citing the team's peak performance last year under Lane Kiffin and Pete Golding. The loss of key players and the uncertainty surrounding Pete Golding's future make it a sell for Klatt.
Illinois: The Illini's QB position uncertainty and the departure of Luke Altmyer, a crucial player, make Illinois a sell for Klatt. He predicts a dip in performance after their recent success.
Vanderbilt: With the departure of star quarterback Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt's energy and momentum may be affected. Klatt suggests that the Commodores might face challenges in maintaining their recent success.
Georgia Tech: After a successful run, Georgia Tech's loss of key players and coordinators could lead to a setback. Klatt believes the team might take a step back in 2026.
Alabama: Despite Kalen DeBoer's success, Klatt is selling Alabama due to the QB battle and the team's recent performance. He doubts their ability to replicate their CFP run.
Klatt's analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the college football landscape, offering a unique perspective on team valuations and potential outcomes for the 2026 season. His insights are valuable for fans and investors alike, providing a strategic approach to navigating the ever-changing world of college football.