College football playoff predictions suggest that the College Football Playoff selection committee faces significant decisions following the conclusion of conference championship weekend.
Oregon and Georgia appear to have secured the top two seeds in the inaugural 12-team CFP, while Arizona State, Clemson, and Boise State are vying for the remaining first-round byes. These teams have shown remarkable performances, each with unique strengths that could influence their playoff journey.
The Sun Devils, boasting an 11-2 record, demonstrated their prowess with a commanding victory over Iowa State in the Big 12 Championship Game. Under the leadership of Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State transformed from a struggling 3-9 team last season to a formidable opponent, winning six consecutive games while averaging 37.2 points per game.
Meanwhile, Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty has emerged as a standout player, rushing for nearly 2,500 yards this season. He has the opportunity to break Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record of 2,629 yards in the Broncos’ first CFP game. Notably, Boise State’s only defeat came in a heart-wrenching finish against the nation’s top-ranked team.
The anticipation builds as the committee’s decision looms, set to be revealed at Noon ET on Sunday. Until then, here are the latest CFP projections:
1. Oregon
Conference: Big Ten
Record: 13-0
2. Georgia
Conference: SEC
Record: 11-2
3. Arizona State
Conference: Big 12
Record: 11-2
4. Clemson
Conference: ACC
Record: 10-3
5. Notre Dame
Conference: Independent
Record: 11-1
6. Penn State
Conference: Big Ten
Record: 11-2
7. Indiana
Conference: Big Ten
Record: 11-1
8. Texas
Conference: SEC
Record: 11-2
9. Ohio State
Conference: Big Ten
Record: 10-2
10. Tennessee
Conference: SEC
Record: 10-2
11. Boise State
Conference: Mountain West
Record: 12-1
12. Alabama
Conference: SEC
Record: 9-3
QUARTERFINAL MATCHUPS
1. Oregon: Bye (would then play the winner of 8. Texas vs. 9. Ohio State)
2. Georgia: Bye (would then play the winner of 7. Indiana vs. 10. Tennessee)
3. Arizona State: Bye (would then play the winner of 6. Penn State vs. 11. Boise State)
4. Clemson: Bye (would then play the winner of 5. Notre Dame vs. 12. Alabama)
FIRST-ROUND MATCHUPS
5. Notre Dame vs. 12. Alabama
Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, a standout quarterback, leads the nation with explosive plays, making the Crimson Tide one of the most dynamic offenses that Notre Dame will face this season. The Fighting Irish’s defense has been impressive, allowing just 13.6 points per game, but Alabama’s high-octane offense could pose significant challenges.
Jalen Milroe has thrown for 2,652 yards and 15 touchdowns while rushing for 719 yards and 20 touchdowns this year. (Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)
6. Penn State vs. 11. Boise State
Ashton Jeanty, recognized as one of the best running backs in college football, will face off against Penn State’s dynamic duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Both teams are eager to secure a victory in their first-ever CFP appearance.
7. Indiana vs. 10. Tennessee
Both Indiana and Tennessee are set for their inaugural CFP experience. With fast-paced offenses and formidable defensive fronts, this matchup promises to be one of the most exciting of the postseason.
Indiana quarterback Kurtis Rourke has thrown for 2,827 yards and 27 touchdowns this year. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)
8. Texas vs. 9. Ohio State
This clash features two of college football’s most talented rosters. Texas and Ohio State showcase impressive run games, with players like Quintrevion Wisner and Quinshon Judkins ready to make their mark in this thrilling matchup.
Ohio State freshman wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has caught 57 passes for 934 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. (Photo by Ben Jackson/Getty Images)
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