Vanderbilt Joins College Football Playoff Bracket as SEC’s Fifth Team
The 2025 college football season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in a while. Several teams are making strong cases for a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP).
Vanderbilt and BYU have emerged as surprise contenders, shaking up the usual power dynamics in their conferences. Let’s get into the latest bowl projections and the matchups that could define the postseason landscape.
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SEC’s Dominance in the Playoff Race
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) just keeps flexing its muscles in college football. With a nine-game conference schedule coming next season, the league’s strength is already on display this year.
Five SEC teams are projected to make the playoff. That’s a potential record and, honestly, kind of wild.
Vanderbilt’s Historic Run
Vanderbilt, usually the underdog in the SEC, is having its best start since 1941. Their dramatic win over Missouri kept their CFP dreams alive and put them on the national radar.
They’ve picked up three wins over nationally ranked teams. That’s not something you see from Vanderbilt every year.
Alabama’s Unyielding Pursuit
Alabama, projected SEC champion, is still a powerhouse. Even after an early-season loss, the Crimson Tide bounced back with seven straight wins.
They haven’t lost in SEC play. Wins over South Carolina and other top opponents have kept Alabama firmly in the national title hunt.
Big 12’s Surprise Contender: BYU
BYU is the Big 12’s last unbeaten team, thanks in large part to freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. Their second straight road win as underdogs has pushed them into the playoff discussion.
Their upcoming game against Texas Tech? That one’s going to be huge for their playoff hopes.
Oklahoma’s Setback
Oklahoma’s loss to Ole Miss was their second defeat this season. That’s a serious blow to their playoff chances.
With four games left against top 25 teams, the Sooners have a tough road ahead if they want back in the playoff conversation.
ACC’s Playoff Picture
The ACC is in flux, with Miami and Georgia Tech both eyeing playoff spots. Miami is still technically in the mix, but a recent loss to Louisville has them on the outside looking in.
Georgia Tech is now projected to win the ACC and could snag a home game in the first round of the playoff. That’s a pretty big shift.
Miami’s Struggles
Miami’s been inconsistent. Their win over Stanford didn’t exactly inspire confidence.
The Hurricanes have a tough schedule ahead if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Georgia Tech’s Ascendancy
Georgia Tech has taken full advantage of Miami’s stumbles. Their dominant win over Syracuse has put them in the driver’s seat for the ACC.
If they keep this up, the Yellow Jackets could be gearing up for a real postseason run.
Big Ten’s Stronghold
Ohio State is still the team to beat in the Big Ten. They’re on track for the conference championship and a top seed in the CFP.
The Buckeyes are expected to be double-digit favorites in their next four games. The big one? That’s Michigan, and everyone’s already talking about it.
Indiana’s Remarkable Season
Indiana is having a season to remember under second-year coach Curt Cignetti. They’re 8-0, which puts them on a collision course with Ohio State in the Big Ten title game.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza has been a key part of their success. It’s been fun to watch.
Oregon’s Defensive Prowess
Oregon, representing the Pac-12, has shown some real grit this year. Their defense has become a strength, especially in recent games.
If they can keep that up, the Ducks have a shot at the playoff.
Group of Five Spotlight: Memphis
Memphis is now the favorite in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) after a wild win over South Florida. That victory has put the Tigers in the Group of Five playoff conversation.
With four more wins, Memphis could lock up a spot in the league title game and maybe even sneak into the CFP.
South Florida’s Decline
South Florida’s recent loss to Memphis knocked them off their spot atop the Group of Five. It’s a reminder of just how competitive the AAC can get.
Key Matchups and Projections
The upcoming bowl games and playoff matchups could be some of the best we’ve seen in a while. Here’s a look at a few projections:
- Rose Bowl: Ohio State vs. Winner of (8/9) matchup
- Sugar Bowl: Alabama vs. Winner of (7/10) matchup
- Orange Bowl: Indiana vs. Winner of (6/11) matchup
- Cotton Bowl: Texas A&M vs. Winner of (5/12) matchup
First-round matchups will be huge for shaping the final playoff bracket. Georgia, BYU, and Vanderbilt all have a shot to make some noise.
Georgia’s Preparation
Georgia’s got a big one coming up against Florida. How they handle that rivalry game could make or break their playoff seeding and, honestly, their whole season.
Notre Dame’s Playoff Potential
Notre Dame’s playoff chances? Still a bit of a mystery. If the Fighting Irish can notch 10 wins, they’ve got a real shot at the CFP—even if their resume isn’t stacked with top-25 wins.
There’s a lot riding on how they finish out the season. The selection committee will be watching them closely, no doubt.
Schedules are brutal, and every week feels like a new twist. If you’re curious for deeper projections and takes, check out the full article over at CBS Sports.
