Texas Targets Top Spot in New College Football Playoff Rankings
As the regular college football season concludes, the focus shifts to the College Football Playoff (CFP). The latest rankings have seen Texas positioning itself for a potential spot in the 12-team playoff, alongside several key competitors.
Current Playoff Contenders
Eight teams appear secure in their playoff positions, pending the outcomes of conference championships. These teams are:
- Ohio State
- Indiana
- Georgia
- Texas A&M
- Texas Tech
- Oregon
- Ole Miss
- Oklahoma
The presence of these contenders suggests a competitive playoff environment, especially as we approach crucial championship games.
Projected Seeds
Two additional teams are expected to claim the No. 11 and No. 12 seeds in the playoffs. Virginia is currently projected to win the ACC championship and secure the 11th seed. However, an upset by Duke could alter the landscape, potentially resulting in the ACC being excluded from the playoffs entirely.
Texas Longhorns in the Mix
The Texas Longhorns, with a record of 9-3, remain in contention for the playoffs despite being the only three-loss team under serious consideration. Currently, they are ranked just behind BYU and ahead of Miami in potential playoff spots.
Texas boasts two victories against teams ranked in the committee’s top eight. Additionally, they will have three wins against top-15 teams post-rankings update. Their key victories, combined with a competitive loss to Ohio State, bolster their playoff case.
Challenges Facing Texas
Despite their strong record, Texas’ loss to the 4-8 Florida team presents a significant hurdle as it weighs heavily on their resume. Nonetheless, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian points out that a 10-2 record still holds value.
The selection committee’s approach to nonconference games will be critical. They may need to assess the Ohio State loss with nuance to avoid discouraging future competitive scheduling among schools.
Final Rankings Influence
Upcoming championship games could prove pivotal for teams, with potential shifts in rankings based on results. The committee will need to navigate these outcomes carefully, especially in adjusting positions among teams like Texas, BYU, and Miami.
The anticipation surrounding the final playoff rankings is building, and all eyes will be on the selection committee’s decisions following the championship weekend.
