The 2024 college football season’s playoff race intensified in Week 14, as surprising upsets and dramatic comebacks reshaped the postseason outlook. Eight teams appear solid in their playoff hopes, but Miami’s stunning loss to Syracuse complicates their path. Meanwhile, Alabama, South Carolina, and Ole Miss face long-shot odds.
Here’s a breakdown of the winners, losers, and playoff implications from an eventful weekend:
Playoff Contenders Solidify Spots
Oregon Ducks (12-0)
Oregon remains the lone undefeated team in the country. Even with a loss in the Big Ten title game, their place in the playoffs is secure. The Ducks have proven their dominance and are a lock for the top seed.
Texas Longhorns (11-1)
Despite a shaky second half, Texas clinched a spot in the SEC Championship against Georgia. A win would solidify their status as a top-four seed, but even a loss likely won’t keep them out.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish (11-1)
A win over USC effectively locked Notre Dame into the playoff. Their consistency and strength of schedule have earned them a seat at the table.
Penn State Nittany Lions (11-1)
Penn State benefits from Ohio State’s loss to Michigan, securing their place in the Big Ten Championship. Regardless of the outcome, their strong season should carry them into the playoffs.
SMU Mustangs (11-1)
SMU enters the ACC Championship with an opportunity to enhance their seeding. Even a loss to Clemson likely won’t disqualify the Mustangs, thanks to their impressive regular season.
Indiana Hoosiers (11-1)
Indiana’s win over Purdue caps a stellar season, making them a surprising but deserving playoff contender. The Hoosiers are benefiting from the chaos surrounding other programs.
Ohio State Buckeyes (10-2)
Despite losing to Michigan, Ohio State remains in contention as an at-large team. Their strong overall record ensures they stay in the top eight.
Tennessee Volunteers (10-2)
With a win over Alabama in their pocket, Tennessee’s playoff hopes remain alive. They aren’t competing for a conference title, but their resume is strong enough for consideration.
Teams Needing Wins to Secure Spots
Georgia Bulldogs (10-2)
Georgia faces Texas in the SEC Championship. A win guarantees a playoff berth, but their impressive season makes them a likely pick even with a loss.
Clemson Tigers (9-3)
Clemson’s playoff hopes hinge on defeating SMU in the ACC title game. A loss would end their postseason aspirations.
Boise State Broncos (11-1) or UNLV Rebels (10-2)
The Mountain West Championship will determine if Boise State or UNLV takes a spot. Boise State has the edge with their stronger season record.
Arizona State Sun Devils (10-2) or Iowa State Cyclones (10-2)
The Big 12 title game winner will secure a playoff berth. Both teams have shown resilience this season, but this matchup will be the ultimate test.
On the Fence: Miami Hurricanes (10-2)
Miami’s 42-38 loss to Syracuse has left their playoff hopes in jeopardy. They’ll need favorable outcomes in other conference championships to squeak in.
Living on a Prayer
Three-loss teams like Alabama, Ole Miss, and South Carolina are on the outside looking in. While they closed the regular season with wins, their playoff hopes rely on unlikely scenarios involving Miami and SMU.
Winners of the Week
- Michigan Wolverines: A gritty 13-10 win over Ohio State salvaged a lackluster season, giving fans a reason to celebrate.
- Baylor Bears: After a 2-4 start, Baylor ended the season on a six-game win streak with a dominant win over Kansas.
- Duke Blue Devils: Capped their season with a dramatic last-second win over Wake Forest, highlighting a strong finish to Manny Diaz’s first year as head coach.
Losers of the Week
- Miami Hurricanes: A second loss in three weeks could cost them a playoff spot despite their 10-2 record.
- North Carolina Tar Heels: Mack Brown’s tenure ends on a sour note with a 6-6 finish and a chaotic loss to NC State.
- Tulane Green Wave: A playoff dream shattered with a loss to Memphis, sending them on the road for the AAC title game.
What’s Next?
Conference Championship Weekend looms large, with playoff spots on the line for several teams. While Oregon’s path is clear, programs like Miami, Clemson, and Arizona State face do-or-die scenarios.
The College Football Playoff picture may be muddy now, but one thing is certain: the drama is far from over.
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