Sports
Top 12 Teams Stay Same in Latest College Football Playoff Rankings
IRVING, Texas — The College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings were released Tuesday, maintaining the top five teams. Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, Georgia, and Michigan held their places, while Oregon jumped to No. 6 after a recent win.
Oregon’s ascent moved Ole Miss to No. 7, marking the only change in the top 10 from last week. The committee chair, Hunter Yurachek, acknowledged Oregon’s need for a signature win to improve their ranking.
Meanwhile, other teams have not settled easily into their spots. Miami, with a challenging path to an at-large bid, remains at No. 8 despite a head-to-head victory against Notre Dame, currently ranked No. 9. Yurachek noted that the committee believes Notre Dame is a “complete team” and deserves its rank.
In other developments, rivalry week promises dramatic impact on the rankings. Notably, Ole Miss faces Mississippi State in the Egg Bowl on Friday, while No. 3 Texas A&M will play at No. 16 Texas.
Coach Lane Kiffin’s potential departure from Ole Miss is a factor the committee may consider in their evaluations as they rank teams. Secure qualification could hinge upon several key games this weekend.
Miami has scenarios lined up that could lead to an ACC Championship berth, yet they require a win against No. 22 Pittsburgh and favorable outcomes elsewhere.
The rankings concluded with the committee identifying Tulane as the only Group of 5 representative at No. 24. The final CFP rankings are set to be revealed on December 7, right after conference championships, with playoffs beginning shortly after.
The upcoming playoff structure includes first-round games taking place at home campuses on December 19 and 20, with quarterfinals scheduled for New Year’s Eve and Day.
