CFP Top 12 Projections: Steady Rankings as Rivalry Week Approaches

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CFP Top 12 Projections: Steady Rankings as Rivalry Week Approaches

As the rivalry week approaches, the latest College Football Playoff (CFP) top 12 projections present a steady lineup with few changes from Week 13. The anticipation builds as the committee prepares to unveil the fourth of six rankings on Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.

CFP Top 12 Projections: Key Rankings

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (11-0)

Ohio State remains unbeaten after a decisive victory against Rutgers. Their ranking is supported by strong performances in overall efficiency and previous wins against ranked teams. Next, they face Michigan, a critical game for their playoff hopes.

2. Indiana Hoosiers (11-0)

Indiana is on a bye and maintains their position due to past successes, including a significant win over Oregon. They can secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship with a victory in their last regular-season game.

3. Texas A&M Aggies (11-0)

Texas A&M holds their spot thanks to their narrow victory over Notre Dame earlier this season. They must defeat Texas in their upcoming game to clinch a spot in the SEC Championship.

4. Georgia Bulldogs (10-1)

Georgia’s strong showing against Texas boosts their profile despite a head-to-head loss to Alabama. They need a win against Georgia Tech to secure their SEC Championship game berth.

5. Texas Tech Red Raiders (10-1)

With a bye week behind them, Texas Tech enjoys good standing due to dominant victories earlier in the season. Their upcoming match against West Virginia will be a test as they aim for a championship spot.

6. Ole Miss Rebels (10-1)

Ole Miss is looking to cement their place in the playoffs but faces challenges in their final game against Mississippi State. They require help from other teams to secure an SEC championship berth.

7. Oregon Ducks (10-1)

Oregon’s recent win against USC enhances their profile, positioning them favorably within the committee’s considerations. They aim to continue their winning streak against Washington in their next game.

8. Oklahoma Sooners (9-2)

After a convincing win over Missouri, Oklahoma solidifies its position in the rankings. They face LSU next, needing to maintain momentum heading into the playoffs.

9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (9-2)

Notre Dame’s strong performance against Syracuse secures their ranking. Their upcoming game against Stanford is crucial as they look to maintain playoff hopes.

10. Alabama Crimson Tide (9-2)

Alabama’s struggles have kept them in the rankings, but they will need to beat Auburn in the Iron Bowl to remain viable in the playoff picture.

11. BYU Cougars (10-1)

BYU’s recent victory at Cincinnati has helped strengthen their ranking. They look to finish the season strong against UCF.

12. Utah Utes (9-2)

Utah’s recent win over Kansas State keeps them in the playoff discussion, but they must win against Kansas to secure their standing.

Upcoming Games and Implications

  • Ohio State vs. Michigan – November 29
  • Indiana vs. Purdue – November 28
  • Texas A&M vs. Texas – November 28
  • Georgia vs. Georgia Tech – November 28
  • Texas Tech vs. West Virginia – November 29
  • Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State – November 28
  • Oregon vs. Washington – November 29
  • Oklahoma vs. LSU – November 29
  • Notre Dame vs. Stanford – November 29
  • Alabama vs. Auburn – November 29
  • BYU vs. UCF – November 29
  • Utah vs. Kansas – November 28

With only a few games remaining, the playoff landscape is set to become clearer. The upcoming matchups will determine which teams solidify their positions in the ultimate pursuit of the CFP championship.