The 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) is really starting to sizzle as November rolls in. With just six unbeaten teams left in the FBS and a pack of one-loss squads clawing for a spot, the race is wild.
This piece digs into the latest playoff bracket projections, the matchups that actually matter, and the bubble teams you might want to keep an eye on as we head into Week 10.
Unbeaten Teams and Top Contenders
Right now, six unbeaten teams remain in the FBS, split between the Power 4 conferences and the Group of 5. The Big Ten’s got two: Ohio State and Indiana.
Georgia Tech (ACC), BYU (Big 12), and Texas A&M (SEC) round out the Power 4’s undefeateds. Navy, repping the American Conference, is the only unbeaten from the Group of 5.
The Big Ten: Ohio State and Indiana
Ohio State is still a juggernaut, heading into November perfect for the fifth time in seven seasons with Ryan Day. Julian Sayin and Jeremiah Smith are both in the Heisman conversation, and if the Buckeyes beat Penn State, they could snag the No. 1 CFP ranking on November 4.
Indiana, with Curt Cignetti at the helm, keeps surprising folks. Their offense is balanced, and the defense isn’t giving much away.
SEC Powerhouse: Texas A&M
Texas A&M’s rolling, and they’ve got a legit shot at the SEC title game. Marcel Reed was lights out against LSU, which has set up the Aggies for a strong finish.
Their schedule isn’t too tough, starting with Missouri on November 8. Could be an easy stretch, but you never know with college football.
ACC and Big 12: Georgia Tech and BYU
Georgia Tech, with Haynes King under center, has been a bit of a revelation. King’s ability to run and throw makes him a sneaky Heisman pick.
BYU’s been scrappy, coming back from two touchdowns down to edge out Iowa State. Freshman Bear Bachmeier’s made some noise and kept the Cougars in the Big 12 mix.
Group of 5 Standout: Navy
Navy keeps owning the American Conference. Quarterback Blake Horvath and running back Brandon Chatman have both been huge for the Midshipmen.
They’ve got a big one coming up against one-loss North Texas in Week 10. That’s a make-or-break for their playoff shot.
One-Loss Teams: The Contenders
There are 11 one-loss teams in the Power 4. Heavy hitters like Alabama and Miami are still in the mix and are projected champs for the SEC and ACC, respectively.
Staying in this group is key with the first CFP rankings looming.
Alabama: The Crimson Tide
Alabama’s still Alabama—dangerous in the SEC. Ty Simpson’s late-game heroics against South Carolina kept their playoff hopes alive.
Three of their last four games are at home, so the Tide have every chance to finish strong.
Miami: The Hurricanes
Miami bounced back in style against Stanford. Mark Fletcher at running back and Carson Beck at quarterback have been the difference-makers.
They’ll hit the road to face SMU in Week 10, and that’s a test they can’t afford to fail.
Other Key One-Loss Teams
Some other one-loss teams worth mentioning:
- Virginia: The Cavaliers have been gutsy, pulling out close wins like their overtime thriller against North Carolina.
- Memphis: The Tigers are still making waves in the American Conference.
- Oregon: Even after losing quarterback Dante Moore to injury, the Ducks are hanging tough in the Pac-12.
- Ole Miss: Lane Kiffin’s Rebels are eyeing their first playoff trip, especially after beating Oklahoma.
Bubble Teams: Who’s In, Who’s Out?
The bubble teams are those right on the edge of the playoff bracket. Oklahoma slipped out this week, while Navy and Vanderbilt stepped in.
They’ll need to keep winning to stay in the hunt.
Navy and Vanderbilt: New Entrants
Navy’s win over FAU and Vanderbilt’s defensive stand against Missouri have put both teams in the playoff conversation.
Week 10 is huge for them—one slip and it could all unravel.
Oklahoma: The Dropout
Oklahoma’s loss to Ole Miss knocked them out of the bracket. They’ll have to regroup and run the table to get back in.
Key Matchups to Watch in Week 10
Week 10’s got some real make-or-break games. Here’s what to watch:
Ohio State vs. Penn State
This Big Ten showdown is a real test for Ohio State. Win, and they’re probably locked in at No. 1 in the CFP rankings.
Texas A&M vs. Missouri
The Aggies have a soft schedule, but that trip to Missouri could trip them up. Marcel Reed needs to keep up his hot streak.
Georgia Tech vs. NC State
Georgia Tech can’t sleep on NC State. Haynes King will have to be sharp to avoid the upset.
BYU vs. Texas Tech
BYU’s got a big one against Texas Tech. Bear Bachmeier, just a freshman, will need to step up if the Cougars want to stay in the playoff conversation.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
The race for the College Football Playoff isn’t anywhere near settled yet. So many teams are still in the mix.
Every game in November feels like it matters just a bit more than the last. The first CFP rankings drop on November 4, and honestly, they might just shake things up.
If you’re after more details or want to check out the latest playoff projections, head over to Sporting News.
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