Rivalry Week: Teams Desperate for CFP Wins
The College Football Playoff (CFP) landscape is heating up as Rivalry Week approaches. Several teams are vying for crucial wins that could determine their paths to the playoffs.
Teams Contending for CFP Wins
Six teams remain in the chase for the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship: Duke, Georgia Tech, Miami, Pitt, SMU, and Virginia. In the Big 12, Arizona State, BYU, Texas Tech, and Utah are still competing for a spot. Meanwhile, Michigan has the opportunity to participate in the Big Ten title game.
The final week of the regular season is pivotal, especially with the upcoming conference championship games. Teams will look to solidify their playoff credentials or risk elimination.
Current Rankings and Playoff Picture
The College Football Playoff selection committee is expected to release updated rankings soon. With eleven of the top twelve teams winning their games last Saturday, any rankings changes may primarily impact teams on the playoff bubble.
- ACC: Miami is currently the last team in the projection.
- Big 12: Texas Tech holds the last spot in this conference.
- Big Ten: Oregon is the team most likely to clinch a playoff position.
SEC Championship Game Implications
In the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Alabama can secure a spot in the championship game by defeating Auburn in the Iron Bowl. A loss could jeopardize their playoff chances, especially if they finish with three losses.
Big 12 Championship Scenarios
Texas Tech must win against West Virginia to clinch its place in the Big 12 title game. The stakes are equally high for BYU, which needs to secure a win against UCF.
ACC Championship Prospects
Miami’s chances of reaching the ACC title game are currently at 13%. Their best chance for CFP inclusion remains through an at-large bid, contingent on a victory against Pitt.
- Must-Win Games: Miami vs. Pitt
- Potential Upsets: Need for help from other teams to improve CFP odds.
Teams on the Bubble
Several teams, including Duke, Georgia Tech, and Pitt, remain in contention but face complicated routes to playoff inclusion. While three ACC teams can still make the championship game, many factors will determine their fates.
Next Steps and Key Matches
As Rivalry Week unfolds, the outcomes of crucial games will likely reshape the playoff landscape. Teams must capitalize on their final opportunities to enhance their résumés.
Fans eagerly await the evening of the selection show when the latest rankings will shed light on each team’s playoff aspirations. The drama of the final week is set, with conference champions and playoff contenders both battling for recognition.
