FORT WORTH, Texas — Expectations are once again high for TCU as the Horned Frogs enter the 2026 season looking to build on consecutive successful campaigns under head coach Sonny Dykes.
Coming off a 9-4 season and an Alamo Bowl victory, TCU returns with momentum and a roster capable of competing for the Big 12 championship. Dykes, who recently signed a contract extension after leading the Horned Frogs to the most wins in the conference since his arrival in 2022, has positioned the program among the league’s annual contenders.
The biggest storyline entering the season is on offense.
With record-setting quarterback Josh Hoover no longer under center, TCU begins a new chapter with Harvard transfer Jaden Craig expected to lead the offense. Craig brings mobility and experience, but replacing Hoover’s production won’t happen overnight. New offensive coordinator Gordon Sammis will be tasked with tailoring the offense to Craig’s strengths while maintaining the explosive identity that has defined Dykes’ teams.
The Horned Frogs believe they have enough talent around their new quarterback to remain one of the conference’s most balanced offenses. The running game, led by Jeremy Payne, will likely take on a larger role early in the season as the passing attack develops. A veteran offensive line should provide stability while a retooled receiving corps looks to replace key departures.
Defensively, TCU expects to take another step forward under coordinator Andy Avalos.
The return of standout defensive back Jamel Johnson gives the Horned Frogs one of the conference’s top playmakers in the secondary after he led the Big 12 in interceptions last season. Improving the pass rush and creating more disruptive plays up front remain priorities if TCU hopes to challenge for a conference championship.
The schedule provides an immediate measuring stick.
TCU opens the season Aug. 29 against North Carolina in the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in Dublin, Ireland before beginning a demanding Big 12 schedule that includes matchups with BYU, Baylor, Kansas State, Utah and Texas Tech.
With experienced leadership, an established coaching staff and a roster that has been strengthened through player development and the transfer portal, the Horned Frogs enter 2026 with legitimate aspirations of returning to the Big 12 Championship Game and earning a spot in the expanded College Football Playoff.
If TCU can successfully navigate the transition at quarterback while maintaining its defensive progress, the Horned Frogs should once again be one of the teams to beat in the Big 12.
