Oregon Climbs in CFP Rankings; Rivalry Week Approaches

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings released Tuesday showcased Oregon moving up to the No. 6 spot after a significant victory. They have surpassed Ole Miss, which is now ranked No. 7, in the sole change within the top ten.

Hunter Yurachek, chair of the CFP committee, acknowledged Oregon’s rising strength in schedule. ‘Their strength of schedule continues to climb,’ he stated. ‘The committee had been waiting for them to have a signature win.’

In the latest rankings, Texas A&M remained at No. 3, Georgia held on to No. 4, and Ohio State remained undisputed at No. 1. Notre Dame occupied the No. 9 position, while Oklahoma secured the No. 8 slot.

The rankings will continue to evolve as Rivalry Week looms ahead, with numerous games that could impact the final playoff selections. Key matchups include Ole Miss’s Egg Bowl against Mississippi State, where a victory could secure a CFP position.

Coach Lane Kiffin‘s potential departure from Ole Miss adds another layer to the rankings’ dynamics. According to Yurachek, the CFP committee can consider the absence of key players or coaches when evaluating teams.

As the seasons finalize, remaining games are critical. Alabama faces Auburn in the Iron Bowl with an SEC championship at stake. No. 15 Michigan will compete against No. 1 Ohio State, while No. 18 Virginia plays against their rival, which could potentially lead them to the ACC championship.

The final CFP rankings will be announced on December 7, following conference championships. This year, first-round playoffs are set for December 19 and 20. The championship game will unfold on January 19, 2024, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.