As college football moves closer to the playoff season, BYU is positioned to impact the College Football Playoff (CFP) standings significantly. The Cougars are set to face Texas Tech in the Big 12 Championship Game on December 6. Currently ranked No. 11 in the CFP, BYU is just outside the playoff bracket and could earn a coveted automatic bid with a victory.
BYU’s Playoff Aspirations
BYU’s upcoming game against Texas Tech is crucial. The Cougars are eager to avenge their recent loss to the Red Raiders, which ended in a 29-7 defeat. In that matchup, they struggled offensively, failing to score until the fourth quarter.
Impact on Competing Teams
Several teams are closely watching BYU’s performance. No. 10 Alabama and No. 9 Notre Dame, both in the CFP rankings, have stakes in BYU’s success. If BYU wins, it could potentially push one of these teams out of playoff contention.
- Alabama controls its destiny in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia.
- If Alabama wins while BYU also secures a victory, Notre Dame faces elimination.
- In the event BYU wins and Alabama loses, the CFP committee will have a tough choice between Alabama (10-3) and Notre Dame (10-2).
Scenario Analysis
A BYU victory raises intriguing questions for the CFP committee. Historically, a three-loss team has never made the playoffs, but the committee’s past decisions show flexibility in evaluating teams that lose in their conference finals.
For instance, SMU participated in the playoffs last year despite losing in the ACC Championship Game. Similarly, TCU reached the playoffs in 2022 after a loss in the Big 12 Championship. These precedents may influence how the committee views BYU’s chances if they triumph over Texas Tech.
Ultimately, a BYU win could significantly alter the playoff landscape, testing the committee’s resolve and decision-making process. As the stakes rise, all eyes will be on December 6 to see how BYU can shape the future of Alabama and Notre Dame’s CFP ambitions.
