12-Team Playoff Bracket Revealed: Surprises and Shakeups Ahead

As the 2025-26 college football season approaches, the College Football Playoff selection committee is gearing up for a challenging task. With an expanded 12-team bracket, the committee will have to navigate a complex landscape to determine the participants.

Five of the 12 slots will go to conference champions, while the remaining 7 will be at-large bids. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) is expected to be well-represented, with Texas and Georgia projected as the top contenders. Arch Manning's Texas Longhorns are the favorites, but Georgia is poised to win the SEC title in a rematch of a November 15th showdown.

In the Big Ten, Ohio State is the reigning national champion and boasts two Heisman Trophy hopefuls in Jeremiah Smith and Julian Sayin. However, Penn State, led by coach James Franklin, will be looking to take advantage of the playoff's second-chance opportunities.

The Group of Five conference could see a surprise entry, with Boise State or Tulane potentially earning a spot. If Tulane can win at home against both Duke and Northwestern, the Green Wave could make a Cinderella run.

Meanwhile, Alabama is looking to redeem itself after a tough season, and Ole Miss, with its impressive transfer-portal haul, could also earn an at-large bid.