As the college football season heats up, the race for the College Football Playoff (CFP) gets a whole lot more interesting. With the first CFP rankings out, things are starting to take shape—at least a little.
There are still some huge games left, and each one could turn the rankings upside down. Here’s a look at the top remaining matchups that could shake up the College Football Playoff, zeroing in on big games across different conferences that might decide a team’s fate.
Memphis Tigers vs. Tulane Green Wave
Memphis, even though they didn’t crack the committee’s first top 25, is the Group of Five team most likely to make the final 12 right now. Their next big hurdle is a tough game against Tulane.
Memphis just beat South Florida, which helps, but their schedule doesn’t let up. They still have to face Navy and tonight’s matchup against Jon Sumrall’s squad. If they slip up, their playoff hopes could take a serious hit, and suddenly teams like San Diego State or USF might sneak back into the mix.
Key Points to Watch:
- Memphis’ ability to maintain momentum after their South Florida win.
- Tulane’s shot at bouncing back after a rough loss to UTSA.
- What happens to the Group of Five picture if Memphis loses?
BYU Cougars vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders
BYU vs. Texas Tech is a must-watch this week for the Big 12. Both teams are in the playoff conversation, but a win here could be a game-changer.
BYU coach Kalani Sitake wants to show the committee his team belongs, and a win over Texas Tech would help a lot. The Red Raiders, meanwhile, have to either run the table or win the title game to stay alive.
What to Expect:
- BYU’s push for respect and a solid playoff position.
- Texas Tech’s fight to stay relevant and how this game could shape their season.
- Could the Big 12 sneak two teams into the final 12?
Texas A&M Aggies vs. Missouri Tigers
The Aggies feel snubbed in the early rankings, but if they just keep winning, they’re still in the hunt. Next up: a tricky road game at Missouri.
Missouri’s down a quarterback—Beau Pribula is out—so true freshman Matt Zollers gets the start. This one matters a lot for both sides.
Game Highlights:
- Texas A&M needs to keep rolling to stay in the playoff chase.
- Missouri’s challenge with a new QB and their scramble to stay in it.
- How much does this game tilt the Aggies’ playoff odds?
Notre Dame Fighting Irish vs. Pittsburgh Panthers
Notre Dame’s season looked shaky early on, but they’re still in the mix thanks to a big-play offense and a defense that’s tightened up. Their next big test: Pittsburgh.
The Panthers have found some life with freshman quarterback Matt Heintschel. This could turn into a high-scoring shootout, and honestly, it feels like anything could happen.
Key Factors:
- Notre Dame can’t afford another loss if they want to stay in the playoff race.
- Pitt’s chance to pull an upset and boost their own hopes.
- What does this mean for the ACC’s playoff outlook?
Texas Longhorns vs. Georgia Bulldogs
Texas started the year with sky-high expectations, but it’s been a rollercoaster since then. Now, they’re staring down a massive game against Georgia.
Georgia’s still a top-five seed, but they’ve looked a little shaky at times. If Texas can pull off a win, their playoff hopes are back on the table. If Georgia loses, things get dicey real fast.
Game Dynamics:
- Texas’ resurgence with Arch Manning and their need to keep stacking wins.
- Georgia trying to hang on to their playoff spot despite some recent struggles.
- How much does this one swing the playoff door open or slam it shut for both?
Oklahoma Sooners vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
The Sooners are in a tough spot with a brutal schedule ahead, starting with Alabama. Oklahoma has to win out for any shot at the playoffs, and beating Bama would be a huge statement.
Alabama’s not in the mood to let that happen—they’re still in the thick of the playoff race and would love to get some payback for last year’s loss.
Matchup Insights:
- Oklahoma’s uphill battle to stay alive.
- Alabama’s motivation to lock up their spot and erase last year’s memory.
- Big picture: what does this mean for the SEC?
Georgia Bulldogs vs. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
The end-of-year rivalry between Georgia and Georgia Tech could be even more important than usual. Georgia Tech, even with a recent loss, still has a shot if they can win the ACC title game.
A win over Georgia would be huge for Tech’s resume. For the Bulldogs, a loss here could turn their playoff dreams into a nightmare.
Key Storylines:
- Georgia Tech’s hunt for a statement win to impress the committee.
- Georgia’s possible vulnerability and what a loss would mean.
- How does this shake up the ACC and SEC playoff picture?
Oregon Ducks vs. Washington Huskies
Oregon sits at No. 9 but faces a brutal stretch: Iowa, USC, and then the big one against Washington. That finale with the Huskies could be a real turning point.
Washington’s offense can light it up, and they could spoil everything for the Ducks. It’s the kind of game that could flip the playoff script in a hurry.
Game Highlights:
- Oregon needs to win out for a playoff shot.
- Washington’s shot to play spoiler—or maybe even sneak into the mix themselves.
- What’s at stake for the Big Ten and beyond?
Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Tennessee Volunteers
Vanderbilt lost to Texas, but somehow, their playoff hopes aren’t dead yet. Their last game against Tennessee might decide everything.
Vandy has to win to keep their hopes alive. Tennessee, meanwhile, would love nothing more than to ruin their rival’s season.
Key Factors:
- Vanderbilt’s must-win scenario for a playoff spot.
- Tennessee as the spoiler and how this game could define both teams’ year.
- What does this mean for the SEC’s playoff outlook?
Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Michigan Wolverines
The Game—Ohio State vs. Michigan—is always circled on the calendar. This year, it might be even bigger.
Ohio State’s unbeaten and No. 1. Michigan’s fighting for their spot. An upset here could turn the whole playoff picture upside down.
Matchup Insights:
- Ohio State’s quest to maintain their perfect season and secure a top playoff spot.
- Michigan’s potential to upset their rival and enhance their own playoff chances.
- The broader implications for the Big Ten and the playoff picture.
Want to dig deeper into these matchups and what they might mean for the College Football Playoff? Check out the full article on Bleacher Report.
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