UPDATE: The college football landscape is heating up as the countdown to the College Football Playoff (CFP) selections intensifies. With championship game matchups set, the stakes could not be higher, particularly for the ACC and its potential playoff implications.
Earlier today, chaos shook the ACC as unranked Duke University pulled off a stunning upset against SMU, knocking the Mustangs out of the conference championship. This opens the door for Duke to face the Virginia Cavaliers next weekend. A victory for Duke, which holds five losses this season, could lead to an unprecedented outcome where the ACC champion fails to make the playoff, depending on rankings.
The implications are massive: if Duke wins but is ranked lower than champions from the Big 12, Big Ten, and SEC, the ACC could see its champion left out of the CFP entirely. Virginia, currently ranked 18th, could secure a spot if victorious, having previously defeated Duke by 17 points.
Meanwhile, the Big Ten championship is poised to be a formality as both Ohio State and Indiana have clinched their CFP bids. Their matchup in Indianapolis carries no material stakes, highlighting the consequences of conference realignment.
A showdown in the SEC sees Georgia facing Alabama in Atlanta, with significant playoff implications for Alabama, who can’t afford a decisive loss. Earlier today, Alabama narrowly escaped with a 27-20 win against Auburn, making their upcoming clash even more critical.
In the Big 12, the rematch between Texas Tech and BYU in Arlington could be pivotal. A win for Texas Tech guarantees an automatic CFP bid, but the stakes for BYU are high, as they risk missing out on the playoff entirely.
The selection committee’s next rankings will be revealed on December 7, 2023, leading to potential controversy. If Alabama makes the playoff despite a loss, it will intensify debates over inclusion criteria. Teams like Notre Dame and Miami are also in contention for the final slot, creating a highly competitive environment.
Additionally, the Heisman Trophy ballots are due by 2 p.m. PST on December 9, just after bowl pairings are announced. The process has changed this year, preventing early voting ahead of conference championships, which could impact player rankings.
As for coaching changes, a significant shake-up is expected with various schools actively seeking new leadership. Schools like Penn State and LSU are in search mode, and decisions made in the coming days could lead to further openings across the landscape.
Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating what’s next as these storylines unfold. With playoff spots and individual accolades on the line, the excitement in college football is palpable. Stay tuned for more updates as the championship games approach.
