The 2026 college football season kicks off in just over one week. One of the few bright spots of an offseason dominated by jersey patch sponsorships has been new alternate uniforms. Adidas, Nike, Jordan Brand, and Under Armour have all hit the target with their designs.
While there will definitely be more uniforms unveiled throughout the season, there are ten teams that stand out in a crowded field with their new alternate uniforms. Below are the ten best alternate uniforms heading into the 2026 campaign.
10. Texas Tech Red Raiders
The Texas Tech Red Raiders just unveiled the Patrick Mahomes “Let’s Ride” uniforms. The fierce black and red uniforms are bold, embracing Mahomes’ gladiator persona. Fans will get their first look at the uniforms on the field on September 18 when the Red Raiders host the Houston Cougars. Currently, there is no shopping information for the alternate jersey.
9. Ohio State Buckeyes
The Ohio State Buckeyes not only fixed their jersey sleeves but also added the all-black alternate uniform back into their uniform rotation. The “Tunnel Vision” combination features the Buckeye Stripe pattern on the sleeves, a Block O crest, and a festoon-tradition collar. The alternate black jerseys are available in full-family sizing ($60-$170) at GoBuckeyes.com.
8. Texas A&M Aggies
The Texas A&M Aggies unveiled their ‘Honor and Support’ uniforms. Adidas designed the helmets and jerseys, featuring desert camouflage inspired by the Corps of Cadets’ khaki uniforms, dried grasslands, and the rolling hills of Aggieland. The Aggies host the Arkansas Razorbacks on October 3. The jerseys are available for $140 in adult sizes at adidas.
7. Florida Gators
Earlier this month, the Florida Gators unveiled multiple alternate uniform combinations (including throwbacks). Any of the options are solid choices, but we like the new blue helmet and alternate orange jersey. The orange jerseys are not out yet, but fans can shop the Gators’ Jordan Brand gear at Fanatics.
6. Tennessee Volunteers
It’s been a busy offseason for the Tennessee Volunteers. They launched their adidas partnership and rolled out updated primary uniforms. Even better, they dropped incredibly detailed “Smokey Grey” uniforms that celebrate the 100th anniversary of Gen. Robert Neyland’s first season in Knoxville. Tennessee will debut the uniforms against Auburn on August 3. Fans can shop Volunteers gear at adidas.
5. TCU Horned Frogs
Earlier this summer, the TCU Horned Frogs unveiled the Frog Horn Alternate uniforms. The uniform is inspired by their 2010 Nike Pro Combat look, with an Irish touch on the helmet signifying their season opener in Dublin against the UNC Tar Heels. We can’t rest until TCU returns to the spiky diamond collar, but this is a step in the right direction. Fans can shop TCU gear at Fanatics.
4. Notre Dame Fighting Irish
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish unveiled their 2026 “Irish Wear Green” uniforms, and it’s some of Under Armour’s best work yet. The golden dome helmet perfectly complements the matching Kelly Green jerseys and pants. Best of all, the Fighting Irish Leprechaun football logo on the sleeve elevates the entire uniform.
Notre Dame will wear the uniforms against the Stanford Cardinal on October 10. Online shoppers can buy the #1 Notre Dame Fighting Irish Under Armour “Irish Wear Green” Football Jersey at Fanatics in three options.
3. Arizona State Sun Devils
The Arizona State Sun Devils will celebrate the team’s legendary 1987 Rose Bowl victory with alternate throwback uniforms. Stripes, block font, and, most importantly, Sparky on the helmet. The Sun Devils usually reprise Sparky at least once a year, which is still not enough. Fans can buy the retro jersey for $140 in adult sizes at adidas.
2. Washington Huskies
The Washington Huskies and adidas teamed up on all-black uniforms that stand out with incredible detailing. The purple and gold trim pops off with the help of a special dog-inspired font. It’s not yet clear when Washington will debut the uniforms, but fans can buy the jersey for $140 in adult sizes at adidas.
1. Tulane Green Wave
The Tulane Green Wave continue to have more fun with their uniforms than any other team. No city can throw a party like New Orleans, so it is only right that Tulane’s 2026 City Edition uniform and hand-painted helmet celebrate Mardi Gras in style.
The Green Wave will debut them during the Uptown Kickoff game against South Alabama on September 12. The one-off uniforms will be extremely limited and not available at retailers.
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