Oklahoma’s recent victory over Alabama has really shaken up the College Football Playoff (CFP) race. With an 8-2 record and three wins against currently ranked teams, the Sooners are suddenly in a strong position to make the 12-team playoff with just two games left.
This twist has big implications for other contenders, shifting the odds and projections for the playoff season. Let’s dig into the current standings, odds, and some possible scenarios for college football’s top teams.
Oklahoma’s Impact on the College Football Playoff Race
Oklahoma’s win against Alabama threw them into a much better spot for the CFP. With victories over Michigan, Tennessee, and Alabama, the Sooners look like real contenders.
This win didn’t just boost Oklahoma’s odds—it also shook up the standings for other teams fighting for a playoff spot. The ripple effect is real.
Top Contenders and Their Odds
Ohio State, Indiana, and Texas A&M are still the top three teams favored for the national title, at least according to BetMGM. The Buckeyes have nudged up to +185 from last week’s +200.
Indiana sits at +500, while Texas A&M holds at +700 after a tricky game against South Carolina. The gap between these teams isn’t massive, but every week matters.
- Ohio State: +185
- Indiana: +500
- Texas A&M: +700
Georgia, even after a big win over Texas, stays at +1000. Notre Dame, Texas Tech, Oregon, and Alabama are next, with odds from +1100 to +1500.
They’re still in the mix, but the margin for error is getting thin.
Teams No Longer on the Board
Ohio State, Indiana, and Texas A&M have dropped off the board to make the playoff, which pretty much signals they’re locks. Georgia joined them after a decisive win against Texas, moving to 9-1.
With a game coming up against 1-9 Charlotte, the Bulldogs are expected to cruise to a 10th win before facing Georgia Tech. It’s hard to see them slipping now, but hey, college football is weird sometimes.
Other Strong Contenders
Ole Miss and Texas Tech have already hit 10 wins and get to rest up this week. Even so, both teams could be in trouble if they lose their next games.
Ole Miss could get tripped up in the Egg Bowl against Mississippi State. Texas Tech will be a heavy favorite against West Virginia, but you never know.
- Ole Miss: -3000
- Texas Tech: -1600
Volatile CFP Odds
The odds to make the CFP are all over the place right now, especially after the recent games. Oklahoma’s odds jumped from +250 to -185 after beating Alabama.
That’s a leap from about 28% to 65% in their playoff chances. Meanwhile, Alabama’s odds took a hit, dropping from -2000 to -220, which means their shot fell from 95% to 69%.
Key Games Ahead
Oklahoma’s got two home games left against Missouri and LSU. Both are huge for their playoff hopes.
Alabama, already with two losses, can’t afford a stumble and will play Eastern Illinois before the Iron Bowl with Auburn. Oregon, with just one loss, faces tough matchups against USC and Washington, so their path is anything but clear.
- Oklahoma: -185
- Alabama: -220
- Oregon: -220
Contenders in the ACC and Big 12
Georgia Tech is the favorite in the ACC, but their playoff path is pretty tangled. They’d need to beat Pitt and Georgia, then lose the ACC title game to end up 11-2.
BYU’s got a tough road game at Cincinnati and would be a big underdog against Texas Tech in the Big 12 title game. Even at 11-2, the Cougars might still miss the playoff.
- Georgia Tech: +155
- BYU: +250
Long Shots and Potential Upsets
Teams like USC and Michigan, both with two losses, aren’t totally out of it yet. But they’d need some wild upsets or a lot of help from other teams to sneak in.
USC could swipe Oregon’s spot with a win. Michigan could make a case if they manage to beat Ohio State—easier said than done, though.
- USC: +350
- Michigan: +750
Group of Five Contenders
In the Group of Five, North Texas is now the favorite to make the CFP, just ahead of Sun Belt leader James Madison. South Florida lost to Navy, so they’re out of the picture for now.
North Texas, James Madison, and Tulane are still technically in contention. Honestly, though, their chances look pretty slim compared to the Power Five teams.
- North Texas: -115
- James Madison: +185
- Tulane: +500
Oklahoma’s win over Alabama has shaken up the College Football Playoff race.
Some teams look pretty secure, but others are staring down make-or-break games. Their playoff hopes could go either way, honestly.
Curious about the latest twists and numbers? Check out the New York Times for more details and fresh updates.
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