Week 12: Teams Clinching Berths or Facing Elimination
The ongoing 2023 college football season has seen a thrilling competitive landscape with expanding opportunities for a playoff berth. As the season nears its conclusion, teams are either securing their spots in the College Football Playoff (CFP) or facing the harsh reality of elimination. Below is an overview following Week 12, highlighting teams that have clinched playoff berths, those still contending, and others that are officially out of the race.
Teams Clinching Berths or Facing Elimination in Week 12
Playoff Locks
- Ohio State: Regardless of the outcome against Michigan, the Buckeyes are all but assured a playoff spot.
- Indiana: With an 11-1 record before their rivalry game against Purdue, they hold a crucial tiebreaker over notable competitors.
- Georgia, Mississippi, and Texas A&M: These teams have also locked up playoff spots, focusing now on seedings.
Teams Alive for a Playoff Bid
As the playoff picture crystallizes, numerous teams remain in contention:
- Georgia Tech: Despite a less-than-stellar season, they pull off surprising wins.
- Virginia: After a strong win against Duke, their playoff hopes look promising.
- Pittsburgh: Remains in play despite losses.
- SMU, Miami: Both looking to capitalize on the chaotic standings.
- Other key competitors include BYU, Cincinnati, Texas Tech, Utah as potential playoff contenders.
Teams Eliminated from Contention
This week saw a significant number of teams drop out of the playoff discussion:
- Duke: The Blue Devils faltered to a 5-5 record with recent losses impacting their season.
- Louisville: Once a hopeful contender, they were eliminated following a defeat to Clemson.
- Others out include: Cal, Boston College, Clemson, Florida State, North Carolina, and Texas.
What Lies Ahead
The upcoming games will be crucial for determining playoff viability. Notably, the matchup between BYU and Cincinnati could affect tiebreakers for the Big 12 title. Additionally, the prospects of Alabama and Oklahoma remain amidst a tight race for the SEC championship.
As teams vie for the coveted playoff spots, the stakes have never been higher. The excitement is palpable as fans and players alike anticipate Selection Sunday, where the final playoff field will be revealed. With an array of potential outcomes remaining, Week 12 has solidified the playoff landscape while illustrating the unpredictability of college football.
