As the college football season barrels toward its thrilling climax, the College Football Playoff (CFP) committee is set to release its latest rankings on Tuesday night. While the top contenders are expected to hold steady, the real drama lies ahead in Rivalry Week—a slate of games that could upend the playoff picture before conference championships even begin.
The Unshaken Top 4
The top four teams—Georgia, Ohio State, Michigan, and Florida State—are projected to remain unchanged this week. Each squad took care of business in Week 12, further solidifying their playoff résumés.
- Georgia (11-0) – The Bulldogs bulldozed Tennessee, proving once again why they’re the team to beat. A showdown against Georgia Tech is next before the SEC Championship.
- Ohio State (11-0) – Survived a scare vs. Maryland but stayed unbeaten. Their season-defining clash with Michigan looms.
- Michigan (11-0) – Rolled past Penn State despite distractions. Now faces its toughest test: a trip to Columbus with everything on the line.
- Florida State (11-0) – Cruised past North Alabama, but Jordan Travis’ injury casts doubt. A tricky game at Florida awaits.
The Hunt for the Final CFP Spot
The battle for No. 5 and No. 6 remains intense, with Washington and Oregon leading the pack:
- Washington (11-0) – Escaped Oregon State in a wild shootout. A win over Washington State and a Pac-12 title could lock their CFP bid.
- Oregon (10-1) – Dominated Arizona State and eyes a Pac-12 Championship rematch with Washington. Avenge their loss, and they could jump into the top 4.
Dark Horses & Long Shots
Beyond the top six, these teams need chaos to stay alive:
- Texas (10-1) – Crushed Iowa State but likely needs help despite a Big 12 title.
- Alabama (10-1) – Must beat Auburn and upset Georgia in the SEC title to have a shot.
- Louisville (10-1) – Could crash the playoff by beating Kentucky and FSU in the ACC Championship.
- Missouri (9-2) – Playing for a NY6 bowl, not the CFP.
- Penn State (9-2) – Playoff hopes are over, but 10 wins are possible vs. Michigan State.
- Ole Miss (9-2) – Eyeing a big bowl bid but must handle Mississippi State first.
Rivalry Week: Must-Watch Games
While Tuesday’s rankings may lack drama, Rivalry Week promises fireworks:
- Ohio State vs. Michigan (Nov. 25) – The winner likely secures a playoff spot; the loser faces uncertainty.
- Washington vs. Washington State – Can the Cougars spoil UW’s perfect season?
- Alabama vs. Auburn – The Iron Bowl is always unpredictable. An upset would shock the SEC.
- Florida State vs. Florida – Without Travis, can FSU survive a hostile rivalry game?
Final CFP Thoughts
Tuesday’s rankings will confirm the obvious—the top teams control their destiny. But with Rivalry Week ahead, one upset could change everything. Buckle up—college football’s wildest weekend is here!
Stay tuned to NextMinuteNews for live CFP updates, analysis, and reactions as the playoff race heats up!
