In the past decade of the College Football Playoff (CFP), the central debate has often revolved around the selection of teams for the coveted four spots. This discussion reached a peak last season when an unbeaten Florida State squad was shockingly left out despite their perfect record. The introduction of a 12-team playoff format has heightened interest in conference championship games, leading to intensified discussions surrounding rankings and playoff eligibility. This year, teams like Miami, with a 10-2 record, have found themselves placed at No. 12, following a disappointing loss to Syracuse, igniting concerns about which conference champions might displace currently ranked teams.
A pivotal consideration in this burgeoning playoff picture is the potential impact of conference championship outcomes on playoff placements. Several teams ranked below the playoff cutoff—such as Oregon State and UNLV—could leap into contention if they win their respective conferences. Notably, UNLV’s victory in the Mountain West Championship would likely see them transition into the playoff at the expense of a higher-ranked team like Boise State, regardless of the Rebels’ ranking. The scenario becomes even more complex when examining teams such as SMU, currently at No. 8, as a loss against Clemson could entirely derail their chances of playoff entry.
As conference championship week approaches, various matchups will play an essential role in determining playoff spots. Notably, the Conference USA title clash features Western Kentucky and Jacksonville State, both of whom come into the game with identical records. The two teams recently faced off in a thrilling regular-season finale, and Jacksonville State’s success in only its second year of FBS affiliation highlights the growing competitiveness of the conference. Furthermore, significant stakes are attached to victories in the Mountain West and American conferences, with playoff aspirations underpinned by the outcomes of these games.
The Big 12 championship game is another focal point, pitting Iowa State against Arizona State in Arlington. Both teams share identical records of 10-2, and the matchup hinges crucially on the fact that it assures that the Big 12 will secure a spot in the playoff, particularly after Tulane’s loss eliminated the possibility of two Group of Five champions. For Iowa State, this championship game marks a notable milestone as they pursue a conference title, while Arizona State aims for its first significant victory in recent years, indicating remarkable progress under their new head coach.
The MAC and SEC championships will also draw significant attention. The MAC title game sees Ohio go up against Miami (Ohio), with each squad showcasing a strong defense. The stakes are similarly high in the SEC, where No. 5 Georgia faces No. 2 Texas in a crucial rematch following a prior victory by Georgia. While playoff spots are virtually assured for both teams regardless of the outcome, a victory would grant a bye in the first round for the winner—heightening the competition.
Finally, the ACC championship featuring Clemson against SMU represents a particularly intriguing dynamic, considering Clemson’s lower rank and the potential implications for SMU’s inclusion in the playoff should they lose. The outcome of this matchup not only affects playoff placements but also reflects the intense rivalry and competitive landscape of college football this season. SMU’s promising season exemplifies the evolution of the program, while Clemson, with its championship pedigree, faces a defining moment as they look to secure their playoff position. Each championship game this weekend stands not only to impact the respective conferences but also to shape the broader narrative of college football as teams vie for the inaugural 12-team playoff format.
