The College Football Playoff (CFP) field, featuring 12 teams, was announced Sunday, sparking numerous inquiries:
What criteria led to SMU being chosen over Alabama?
Why was a Group of Five program favored over conference champions from the ACC and Big 12?
What factors contributed to Oregon, the top seed, facing the toughest path among first-round bye teams?
As the CFP kicks off on December 20, the spotlight shifts to the Heisman Trophy presentation on Saturday night. Travis Hunter is favored to win this prestigious award, but could Ashton Jeanty challenge him in the voting?
What stood out to you when the College Football Playoff field was unveiled on Sunday?
Laken Litman: The selection of SMU over Alabama, despite a weaker schedule, highlights the committee’s emphasis on conference championships. SMU’s near-miss against Clemson in the ACC title game appears to have weighed more heavily than Alabama’s loss to Oklahoma. This raises questions about how performance in championship games influences playoff selection.
RJ Young: The current seeding process for conference champions needs reevaluation. The fact that Texas is ranked No. 3 but seeded behind No. 9 Boise State and No. 12 Arizona State reveals a flaw in the selection system.
The movement of teams in the rankings, particularly those that did not play, emphasizes the ongoing debate about the value of conference championships. Some coaches still prioritize winning their leagues, while others weigh the risks of injuries and resume damage against the lengthening season. The committee’s decisions indicate that there remains a significant incentive for teams to compete in conference title games.
Which program appears to have the best chance of winning the College Football Playoff national championship?
RJ: Georgia stands out as the favorite. The Bulldogs benefit from a favorable first-round matchup and an extra week of rest for key players like quarterback Carson Beck and punter Brett Thorson before facing the winner of Notre Dame and Indiana. They will not encounter a conference champion until the semifinals, which could be Boise State, SMU, or Penn State. With the semifinal scheduled for the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, Georgia’s SEC advantage will be significant. A victory there could lead to their third national title in four years.
Michael: Georgia is indeed the team to watch. The bracket’s layout may not have pleased SEC commissioner Greg Sankey, especially with Alabama’s disappointing performance against Oklahoma in late November. However, the advantageous path for the Bulldogs, who clinched a first-round bye by winning the SEC Championship Game, allows for optimal recovery time for injured players and valuable practice for backups. They will face either No. 10 Indiana or No. 7 Notre Dame on January 1.
Laken: Georgia is the team to beat.
After winning the SEC championship against Texas, the Bulldogs secured a first-round bye. Coach Kirby Smart emphasized the importance of rest for his team, which faced a demanding schedule throughout the year.
Ohio State, Texas, Penn State, and Notre Dame will host first-round playoff games. Among these programs, which venue excites you the most?
Michael: When considering venue and atmosphere, Penn State emerges as the top choice. Beaver Stadium, especially during a White Out, creates an electrifying environment, making it challenging for any opponent, including SMU, which is returning to a major conference for the first time in decades. The Nittany Lions will likely enjoy a significant home-field advantage.
However, when factoring in narratives and the current sentiment surrounding a program, Ohio State stands out. The Buckeyes, returning to Ohio Stadium after a tough loss to Michigan, will face intense scrutiny. The atmosphere could be charged with tension, especially if their offense struggles early in the game, putting head coach Ryan Day under pressure.
Laken: Penn State is the venue to watch.
This is the kind of atmosphere envisioned when the CFP expanded to 12 teams, allowing first-round games to be played on campus. Coach James Franklin has called for a White Out, which could be even more impactful if snow falls in Happy Valley on December 21. With temperatures expected to be in the low 30s, Beaver Stadium’s capacity of over 106,000 will create an exhilarating environment for SMU.
RJ: Texas is the team with the most to gain from a first-round matchup against a seasoned CFP contender in a city known for its vibrant events and tailgate culture.
The Heisman Trophy winner will be announced Saturday night. Does Ashton Jeanty have a legitimate shot, or is Travis Hunter the clear favorite?
RJ: Heisman voters have a history of surprises, and while Hunter should win due to his impressive dual-threat capabilities, the unpredictability of the voting process remains. Hunter’s statistics place him among the top performers in both receiving and defending, making him a strong candidate.
Michael: Perspectives on the Heisman Trophy vary widely. Some view it as the Most Valuable Player award, while others believe it should recognize the standout player on a championship-caliber team. There’s also a belief that it should honor extraordinary athletic achievements, similar to past winners like Lamar Jackson and Reggie Bush.
From this viewpoint, Hunter deserves the award. While Jeanty is on track to break the single-season rushing record, Hunter’s versatility and impact on both offense and defense make him a generational talent. His remarkable snap count and effectiveness in multiple roles highlight the kind of excellence that the Heisman Trophy aims to celebrate.
