What are the best colleges for D1 football scholarships?

I'm a junior in high school looking to play football in college, and I'm curious about which D1 schools are known for offering the best football scholarships. Any recommendations on where I should aim for to maximize my scholarship opportunities?

In terms of maximizing your scholarship opportunities in football, it's important to understand that (beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year) all NCAA Division I football programs are allowed to offer up to 105 full-ride scholarships. That said, the "best" schools would largely depend on what else you're searching for in a college, such as academic reputation, location, or specific programs of study.

However, if you're interested in programs known for their competitive edge, programs like Alabama, Clemson, Ohio State, University of Oklahoma, Florida State, University of Southern California (USC), and Notre Dame are traditionally among the top Division I schools for football. They are highly competitive, known for their strong football culture, consistent championship runs, and role as a feeder to the NFL.

Don't forget financial aid can also play a significant role. Schools like Stanford and Duke, which also have respected football programs, offer generous financial aid packages that can significantly reduce your costs, in addition to any athletic scholarships you might receive.

One strategy is to utilize resources like Appily. This tool can help you filter schools based on your personal criteria and needs. However, it's crucial you also reach out to coaches, attend sports camps, and make sure you meet the academic eligibility requirements to keep as many options open as possible.

Please keep in mind that athletic scholarships are highly competitive, especially at Division I level. Thus, focusing not only on your athletic performance but also your academic achievements can increase your chances of getting scholarship offers.