The Oregon Ducks have never been ranked No. 1 in the Associated Press preseason poll, but they may have one of their strongest cases yet ahead of the 2026 season. While Oregon has climbed to No. 1 during the regular season in 2010, 2012 and 2024, the program’s highest preseason AP ranking remains No. 3, a mark it reached in 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2024. Jan 1, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Oregon Ducks linebacker Devon Jackson (26) and quarterback Dante Moore (5) celebrate following the 2025 Orange Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff against the Texas Tech Red Raiders at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images With college football quickly approaching, Sports Illustrated listed five teams with a case to open the season at No. 1. The Ducks are included but why does this matter? Preseason AP Poll Prediction Oregon is joined by Georgia, Ohio State, Notre Dame and Texas as the possible No. 1 teams on the list. For Oregon, a preseason No.…