IRVING, TX — The College Football Playoff (CFP) released the much-hyped first-ever 12-team playoff field. The Oregon Ducks, however, earned the coveted No. 1 overall seed, marking a record-setting season and dominant run.
Oregon, with its season-long consistency, rightfully claims the No. 1 seed heading into the playoffs. However, it’s not the only team to reach the second round without playing. Three other conference champions have also achieved this, a clear testament to the intense competition that has defined this year’s field.
The Georgia Bulldogs, with their 11-2 record, secured the No. 2 seed, a position earned through sheer resilience and strength. These qualities have been key in their journey to a top ranking. Boise State, with an impressive 12-1 mark, claims the No. 3 seed. Their play this season has firmly established them as a force to be reckoned with in college football.
Arizona State (11-2) secured the four seed with clever play and constant winning season, rightfully land them among the top three contenders with a first-round bye.
The most surprising news for some was that SMU had inserted itself into the playoff field as the last contender. And although they lost to Clemson in the ACC championship game, SMU barely sneaked past traditional powerhouse Alabama for the fourth and final spot. The move goes to the heart of the fluid, often capricious world of college football, in which every game has ramifications for postseason chances.
As the playoff nears, much hype surrounds these matchups, with fans wondering if the new format will allow something unexpected to happen or lead one of these seeds toward the title.
Ohio State will host Tennessee at Ohio Stadium, and Texas will host Clemson, both games being held on December 21. Penn State will also host the ACC runner-up, SMU. Notre Dame is coming off an impressive 11-1 season and will host another team with an incredible season in Indiana.
The move to a 12-team field promises high-stakes drama and a broader scope for teams’ pursuit of the national title.
