Will Alabama make the College Football Playoff with three losses?

Alabama could potentially make the playoff with three losses if they are the committee's highest-ranked three-loss team, but it's not guaranteed.

Can Duke win the ACC and make the College Football Playoff?

Yes, if Duke wins the ACC championship game, they could represent the conference in the 12-team playoff, even with five losses.

How does a coach's departure affect a team's playoff ranking?

The CFP committee may consider factors like a coach's departure if it's believed to impact a team's performance.

Home / Sports / CFP Chaos: Rematches & Upsets Loom Large

CFP Chaos: Rematches & Upsets Loom Large

2 Dec

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Summary

Multiple power conferences face championship rematches.
Five-loss Duke could potentially win the ACC.
Committee's upcoming ranking will signal playoff field.

CFP Chaos: Rematches & Upsets Loom Large

The expanded 12-team College Football Playoff faces potential chaos as several power conferences are set for championship game rematches. The possibility of a five-loss Duke team winning the ACC further complicates the scenario, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the current season. Teams are anxiously awaiting the committee's fifth ranking, which is expected to offer a clearer glimpse into the final playoff picture.

Significant questions remain regarding team placements, especially for programs like Ole Miss, whose coach's departure might influence their standing. The committee's decisions will weigh factors beyond on-field performance, potentially impacting teams that appear to be on the bubble. Historical precedent suggests that even strong records might not guarantee a playoff spot, particularly if conference champions emerge with fewer losses.

As Selection Sunday approaches, the race intensifies with teams like Alabama and Georgia potentially facing each other twice. The outcomes of conference championship games will significantly shape the playoff field, determining which teams secure berths and which are left to ponder 'what-ifs' until next season. The committee's deliberations are expected to be intense.