As the excitement builds in the world of college football, fans are eagerly counting down the days until the first College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings are unveiled on November 5. With just two weeks to go, the anticipation is palpable, especially with the playoff format expanding to 12 teams this season. This change promises to add a new layer of intrigue and competition, making every game count even more.
### The Road to the Rankings
In the absence of official CFP rankings, analysts and fans alike are turning to the Associated Press (AP) Top 25 as a guiding light to project the playoff field. Historically, the AP poll and the CFP rankings align closely, particularly as the season progresses. As we dive into the current landscape of college football, let’s take a look at the projected playoff field after the third Saturday in October.
### First-Round Byes
#### 1. Oregon (7-0, Projected Big Ten Champion)
Oregon has surged to the top of the AP Top 25 for the first time since 2012, thanks to a combination of their impressive win over Purdue and Texas’ unexpected loss. The Ducks are on track for an undefeated regular season, with their only remaining ranked opponent being No. 20 Illinois. The upcoming matchup against Michigan on November 2 has lost some of its luster, as the Wolverines struggle with their passing game, making Oregon’s path to the playoffs look increasingly favorable.
#### 2. Georgia (6-1, Projected SEC Champion)
Georgia continues to prove its mettle under head coach Kirby Smart, bouncing back from doubts with a commanding victory over Texas. The Bulldogs’ defense was formidable, but the offense needs to step up, particularly quarterback Carson Beck, who has thrown eight interceptions in four SEC games. As Georgia aims to reclaim its dominant form, the pressure is on to refine their offensive strategy.
#### 3. Miami (7-0, Projected ACC Champion)
The Hurricanes are riding high after a thrilling victory against Louisville, showcasing their ability to win tight games. Miami’s offense, led by Heisman frontrunner Cam Ward, has been explosive, but their defense has shown vulnerabilities, allowing 129 points in three ACC games. As they continue to navigate the season, the balance between high-scoring offense and defensive resilience will be crucial.
#### 4. Iowa State (7-0, Projected Big 12 Champion)
Iowa State has also found itself in the playoff conversation, albeit with a few close calls. Their recent 38-35 victory over UCF highlighted their struggles against a potent rushing attack. The Cyclones managed to rally in the final moments, showcasing their determination and ability to perform under pressure. As they push forward, consistency will be key to maintaining their undefeated record.
### First-Round Games
#### No. 12 Boise State (Projected MWC Champion) at No. 5 Penn State (At-Large)
In a matchup that could preview the Mountain West title game, Boise State faces UNLV in a late-night clash that may not get the attention it deserves. Meanwhile, Penn State is gearing up for a challenging game against Wisconsin, who has found its rhythm with a three-game winning streak. This game will be pivotal for both teams as they seek to solidify their playoff aspirations.
#### No. 11 BYU (At-Large) at No. 6 Ohio State (At-Large)
BYU has been nothing short of thrilling, pulling off a last-minute victory against Oklahoma State. Their upcoming game against UCF will be a test of their resilience. Ohio State, on the other hand, is preparing for a crucial matchup against Nebraska, which could set the stage for a high-stakes showdown against Penn State in Week 10. The Buckeyes need to assert their dominance to build momentum heading into that critical game.
#### No. 7 Texas (At-Large) at No. 10 Clemson (At-Large)
Despite a setback against Georgia, Texas remains committed to its starting quarterback, Quinn Ewers. The Longhorns are looking to bounce back, while Clemson continues to impress with its high-scoring offense. The Tigers are averaging 42 points per game, showcasing their ability to put up numbers despite a rocky start to the season. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for playoff positioning.
#### No. 8 Tennessee (At-Large) at No. 9 LSU (At-Large)
A potential inter-conference showdown between Tennessee and LSU could be one of the most exciting matchups of the playoff picture. Tennessee’s offense is gaining momentum after a strong performance against Alabama, while LSU is looking to maintain its unbeaten conference record. With both teams showcasing their strengths, this game could have significant implications for the playoff landscape.
As the season progresses, the race for the College Football Playoff intensifies. With each game, teams are not only fighting for victories but also for their place in history as they aim for a shot at the national championship. The next few weeks will be critical, and fans can expect thrilling matchups and unexpected twists as the playoff picture continues to take shape.