Week 10 Preview: College Football Playoff Chaos Looms

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — College football enters an exciting Week 10 as multiple ranked teams hit the road, creating the potential for dramatic upsets. The first Saturday of November showcases three ranked games while ten other ranked teams are also playing away from home. SP+ analysis suggests these road teams have only a 9% chance of all winning this weekend, meaning at least three will likely face defeat.

Among the road teams, No. 2 Indiana (8-0) is heavily favored against Maryland (2-6), who struggles in November under coach Mike Locksley. Meanwhile, No. 1 Ohio State (7-0) will take on Penn State (5-2), a matchup projected to be close, but Ohio State is favored by over 20 points.

On the other hand, Alabama (7-1) faces tough competition in Ole Miss and Georgia, as both teams aim to secure their playoff spots. Current odds show Alabama at 71.2% to make the playoff, while Ole Miss is at 70.6% and Oregon at 67.9%.

As the College Football Playoff rankings approach, any delays or losses might change the landscape completely. Notably, Texas A&M (8-0) is in a strong position with their playoff odds soaring to over 90%. They currently enjoy a bye week, while teams like Indiana and Ohio State continue their campaigns.

“Week 10 is crucial,” said ESPN sports analyst Andrea Adelson. “With the first CFP rankings coming out next week, a misstep could seriously affect the playoff race.”

Virginia Tech and Louisville gear up for critical matchups as well, with each looking to solidify their playoff hopes. In total, this weekend is set to define the trajectories of numerous title contenders as they strive for conference championships and playoff berths.

As the season heats up, fans and analysts alike should anticipate surprises, especially with the unpredictable nature of college football on the road.

Current betting lines reveal Indiana as 21.5-point favorites against Maryland, Ohio State at 20.5 against Penn State, and Alabama favored by 6.5 against Ole Miss as the weekend approaches.