Ohio State’s Playoff Hopes Shaken: Prediction After Indiana Defeat
Ohio State’s playoff aspirations faced a significant challenge following their defeat to Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game. The College Football Playoff (CFP) selection will take place on Sunday at noon Eastern. Despite the loss, Ohio State is expected to be included in the playoff field.
Projected College Football Playoff Teams
The following teams are predicted to make the CFP:
- Indiana (Big Ten Champion)
- Georgia (SEC Champion)
- Ohio State
- Texas Tech (Big 12)
- Oregon
- Ole Miss
- Texas A&M
- Oklahoma
- Notre Dame
- Alabama
- Tulane (American)
- James Madison (Sun Belt)
Ohio State’s Playoff Seeding
After their undefeated regular season, many expected Ohio State to maintain a top ranking. However, it is projected that they will be seeded third in the playoff. Georgia, who recently claimed victory in the SEC Championship by decisively defeating Alabama, is likely to secure the top seed.
Both Ohio State and Georgia share a common opponent, Texas. Ohio State began their season with a narrow victory over the Longhorns, while Georgia achieved a significant win against Texas later in the season. This context may influence playoff seedings.
ACC’s Chances in the CFP
There’s speculation about whether an Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) team will make the playoff this year. It is a common misconception that conference champions automatically qualify for the CFP. Currently, the top five highest-ranked conference champions gain automatic bids, and the Big Ten, SEC, and Big 12 are expected to fill three of those slots.
The remaining two bids may go to Tulane and James Madison, potentially leaving the ACC without a representative. Miami could have a chance as an at-large bid, but recent performances raise doubts about their inclusion, especially after Alabama’s poor showing against Georgia.
In summary, the upcoming CFP selection will clarify Ohio State’s positioning and the ACC’s future in this year’s playoff landscape.
