As the excitement builds in college football, we find ourselves just two weeks away from the inaugural College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings for the 2024 season. With the playoff expanding to 12 teams, fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating how the landscape will shape up. Each week, we’re diving into the projected playoff field, using the AP Top 25 as our primary reference point until the official rankings are released on November 5.
### First-Round Byes
#### 1. Oregon (7-0, Projected Big Ten Champion)
Oregon has surged to the top of the AP Top 25 for the first time since 2012, thanks to a combination of their impressive win over Purdue and Texas’ unexpected loss. The Ducks are on a promising path to an undefeated regular season, with their only remaining ranked opponent being No. 20 Illinois, who will visit Eugene this Saturday. The anticipated matchup against Michigan on November 2 has lost some of its luster, as the Wolverines have struggled with their passing game, making Oregon’s road to the playoffs look increasingly favorable.
#### 2. Georgia (6-1, Projected SEC Champion)
Georgia continues to prove its mettle under head coach Kirby Smart, bouncing back from doubts with a commanding victory over Texas. The Bulldogs’ defensive front was a force to be reckoned with, but questions linger about their offensive consistency. Quarterback Carson Beck has thrown eight interceptions in four SEC games, raising concerns as they head deeper into the season. Nevertheless, if Georgia can tighten up their offense, they remain a formidable contender for the playoffs.
#### 3. Miami (7-0, Projected ACC Champion)
The Miami Hurricanes are riding high after a thrilling 52-45 victory over Louisville, showcasing their ability to win in high-pressure situations. Quarterback Cam Ward has emerged as a Heisman frontrunner, but Miami’s defense has been a cause for concern, allowing a staggering 129 points in their three ACC games. As they continue to navigate tight contests, the Hurricanes will need to find a way to bolster their defensive performance if they hope to make a deep playoff run.
#### 4. Iowa State (7-0, Projected Big 12 Champion)
Iowa State has also found itself in a series of nail-biters, including a tense 38-35 victory over UCF. The Cyclones’ defense was tested as the Knights racked up an impressive 354 rushing yards. Iowa State had to rally late in the game, scoring the final 11 points to secure the win. As they look ahead, maintaining their composure in close games will be crucial for their playoff aspirations.
### First-Round Games
#### No. 12 Boise State (Projected MWC Champion) at No. 5 Penn State (At-Large)
In a matchup that could preview the Mountain West title game, Boise State will face UNLV in a late-night clash. The Broncos’ standout running back, Ashton Jeanty, will be a focal point as they seek to maintain their momentum. Meanwhile, Penn State will host Wisconsin, a game that has become more challenging as the Badgers have found their rhythm, winning their last three games decisively.
#### No. 11 BYU (At-Large) at No. 6 Ohio State (At-Large)
BYU pulled off a dramatic last-minute win against Oklahoma State, showcasing their resilience. As they prepare to face UCF, they’ll need to be wary of the Knights, who have proven to be a tough opponent. Ohio State, on the other hand, is gearing up for a crucial matchup against Nebraska, which will serve as a warm-up before their highly anticipated clash with Penn State in Week 10.
#### No. 7 Texas (At-Large) at No. 10 Clemson (At-Large)
Despite their recent loss to Georgia, Texas remains committed to starting quarterback Quinn Ewers, who played the entire second half of that game. Head coach Steve Sarkisian’s decision to briefly switch to Arch Manning raised eyebrows, but Ewers’ experience will be vital as they face a high-scoring Clemson team. The Tigers, fresh off a 48-31 victory over Virginia, are averaging 42 points per game, making them a formidable challenge for the Longhorns.
#### No. 8 Tennessee (At-Large) at No. 9 LSU (At-Large)
This potential matchup promises to be a thrilling inter-conference showdown. Tennessee’s offense found its groove in the second half against Alabama, while LSU is riding high after a solid performance against Arkansas. With both teams looking to solidify their playoff positions, this game could be a pivotal moment in the season for either squad.
As we approach the release of the first CFP rankings, the excitement and anticipation surrounding college football continue to grow. Each week brings new developments, and with the playoff format expanding, the stakes have never been higher. Fans are left to wonder: who will rise to the occasion and secure their spot in the inaugural 12-team playoff?