Rivalry weekend in college football brought significant changes to the College Football Playoff landscape. The third-ranked Texas A&M Aggies suffered a surprising loss to the Texas Longhorns, eliminating their chances of competing in the SEC Championship Game.
Impact of Texas A&M’s Loss
This defeat is expected to drop Texas A&M in the rankings. While they are likely to remain in the top eight and host a first-round playoff game, the loss diminished their chances of securing a first-round bye.
Top Teams’ Aspirations
The Alabama Crimson Tide finds themselves in a pivotal position. With a victory over the Auburn Tigers, Alabama can advance alongside the Georgia Bulldogs to the SEC Championship in Atlanta. Meanwhile, Texas Tech, ranked fifth, can further solidify their standing in the top four following A&M’s defeat.
Current CFB Playoff Bracket Projections
- No. 12 Tulane vs. No. 5 Oregon
- No. 11 Virginia vs. No. 6 Ole Miss
- No. 10 Alabama vs. No. 7 Texas A&M
- No. 9 Notre Dame vs. No. 8 Oklahoma
Texas Tech’s Path Forward
Texas Tech is favored to win against the West Virginia Mountaineers and subsequently face the BYU Cougars in the Big 12 Championship. Two victories could elevate them into the top four, as their closest competitors may not play next weekend.
Oregon’s Title Chase
The Oregon Ducks also hope to contend for a playoff spot. They need the top-ranked Ohio State Buckeyes to lose to the Michigan Wolverines to have a chance at the Big Ten Championship. A win against the Washington Huskies on Saturday would ensure that Oregon hosts a playoff game.
Ole Miss Secures Playoff Spot
Lane Kiffin’s Ole Miss Rebels achieved a significant victory over the Mississippi State Bulldogs, solidifying their place in the playoffs. The upcoming SEC Championship is expected to feature a match between Alabama and Georgia.
Alabama’s Potential Outcomes
Alabama has a formidable record of 9-2, with losses against Florida State and Oklahoma. A potential defeat in Atlanta could jeopardize their top 10 status, despite their previous wins against several Top 25 teams.
What Lies Ahead for Miami
If BYU loses to Texas Tech, the Miami Hurricanes may find a window of opportunity to advance. Miami is currently vying for the final playoff at-large spot. They need to defeat the Pittsburgh Panthers and require favorable outcomes elsewhere to secure a place in the ACC Championship Game.
