College Football Playoff Bracket Set: Week 14 Showdowns Loom
The latest College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings just dropped. The top teams held steady, but there are some big updates and possible shake-ups as we head into the last stretch of the season.
Ohio State is still clinging to the top spot. Indiana, Texas A&M, Georgia, and Texas Tech are right behind. With some huge games coming up, the playoff picture is starting to take shape, but who knows—there could still be a surprise or two.
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Top Teams and Key Matchups
Ohio State has been No. 1 since the first rankings. Their next game against Michigan is a big deal.
If Ohio State beats Michigan, they’re locked in for the Big Ten title game. Indiana, sitting at No. 2, could be their opponent if both teams finish strong.
Ohio State vs. Michigan
The Buckeyes have to win to make the Big Ten Championship. This game isn’t just a rivalry—it’s their shot at staying on top and clearing a path to the CFP.
Indiana’s Consistency
Indiana has been rock-solid at No. 2. Their season’s been impressive, and they’re right in the playoff mix.
SEC Showdowns and Playoff Implications
Texas A&M, Georgia, and Texas Tech round out the top five. The Aggies are unbeaten and can clinch an SEC title game spot if they beat Texas.
Georgia and Texas Tech also have crucial games coming up. Their playoff hopes are hanging in the balance.
Texas A&M vs. Texas
The Aggies’ game against Texas is huge. If they win, they keep their perfect record and head to the SEC Championship.
Georgia and Texas Tech
Both Georgia and Texas Tech are 10-1. They’ve got to win out to stay in the hunt, and people are definitely watching.
Challenges for the Second Half of the Top 10
There’s been some movement in the lower half of the top 10. Oregon jumped to No. 6, while Mississippi slipped to No. 7.
Oklahoma, Notre Dame, and Alabama round out the top 10. Each has tough games ahead.
Oregon’s Tricky Test
Oregon faces Washington next. If they win, they’re in good shape, but a loss could wreck their playoff dreams.
Mississippi and Oklahoma
Mississippi has a tough rivalry game with Mississippi State. Oklahoma’s got a brutal SEC finish, ending with LSU. Both need wins—plain and simple.
At-Large Teams and Potential Surprises
Notre Dame and Alabama are hanging onto the last two at-large spots. Notre Dame faces Oklahoma on the road, and Alabama travels to Auburn.
Just outside the top 10, Brigham Young, Miami, Utah, Vanderbilt, and Michigan are lurking. A strong finish from any of them could shake things up.
Notre Dame’s Path
Notre Dame needs to beat Oklahoma to lock down their spot. They’ve looked good, but this game will say a lot about where they stand.
Alabama’s Challenge
Alabama has to get past Auburn. If they lose, that’s probably it for their playoff hopes.
Group of Five Contenders
The race for the Group of Five’s automatic bid is getting clearer. Tulane is the only ranked team from these conferences, holding on at No. 24.
Tulane faces North Texas for the American Conference title. The winner is likely grabbing that automatic bid.
Tulane’s Position
Tulane needs to win out to stay in the conversation. Their matchup with North Texas is the decider for the Group of Five bid.
North Texas and James Madison
North Texas could make a statement by beating Tulane. James Madison isn’t ranked, but they’re still technically in the mix if other teams slip up.
Upcoming Schedule and Key Dates
The next CFP rankings come out Dec. 2 after Week 14. The final playoff field gets revealed Dec. 7.
First-round games will be on campus sites, with winners heading to the quarterfinals. The Cotton Bowl, Orange Bowl, Rose Bowl, and Sugar Bowl will host those, while the Fiesta Bowl and Peach Bowl get the semifinals. The championship game is set for Jan. 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.
First-Round Matchups
- No. 12 Tulane at No. 5 Texas Tech
- No. 11 Miami at No. 6 Oregon
- No. 10 Alabama at No. 7 Mississippi
- No. 9 Notre Dame at No. 8 Oklahoma
Quarterfinals and Beyond
The quarterfinals are shaping up to be packed with drama. Top teams will go head-to-head against the winners from the earlier rounds.
Every game feels like it could tip the scales. Stakes are high, and nobody wants to blink first.
If you want the latest CFP rankings or just need a bracket update, check out the full article on USA Today.
