Carroll College's Fighting Saints are ranked No. 2 in the Frontier-West Preseason Coaches鈥� Poll for 2026, following a successful 2025 season that included hosting and winning their first NAIA Football Championship Series game in over a decade. The Saints garnered 30 points in the poll, maintaining their position from the previous year. They finished behind College of Idaho, which received 36 points and six first-place votes. Montana Western follows in third with 27 points and one first-place vote. The NAIA season kicks off on August 27, as Carroll hosts MSU-Northern at 6 p.m.

By the Numbers
  • Carroll received 30 points in the preseason poll.
  • College of Idaho topped the poll with 36 points and six first-place votes.
State of Play
  • Carroll finished last season with a 9-3 overall record and a 5-1 conference record.
  • The NAIA season starts on August 27, with Carroll playing MSU-Northern.
What's Next

As the season approaches, Carroll College aims to capitalize on last year's momentum and potentially challenge for the top spot in the Frontier-West Conference. Anticipation is high for their opening game against MSU-Northern, where they hope to start the season strong.

Bottom Line

Carroll's no. 2 preseason ranking reflects their strong performance last season and sets the stage for a competitive 2026 campaign. The team's ability to build on their previous successes will be crucial as they aim for a top finish in the league.