Cody Goggin

One more week, three less teams in the race. As we approach rivalry week, anything can happen and the picture should shape itself.

Prime Position

  1. Alabama– Basically a lock at this point unless they somehow lose to both Auburn and in the SEC Championship. The Tide will keep on rolling all the way to the playoff.
  2. Ohio State– They were awfully unimpressive this week as they almost lost to Michigan State, but if they win against the Wolverines this week, they should be in the playoff, despite not winning the division.
  3. Michigan– In a great place here as even though it wasn’t pretty, they were able to beat Indiana. The showdown with OSU looms large and a win will put them in the Big Ten Championship game.
  4. Clemson– Louisville’s loss helps quite a bit as Clemson has officially clinched the division and with two more wins will matchup against the winner of Michigan-OSU in the semi-finals of the CFP.
  5. Washington– The Huskies have now moved up into prime position as if they can beat Wazzu in the Apple Cup this weekend and either Colorado or a revenge game against USC, they may find themselves in the “big dance”.

Need Some Help

  1. Wisconsin- The Badgers look to be on a collision course for a playoff shot in the Big Ten Championship Game. Could turn into a “win and you’re in” situation. A loss against Minnesota this weekend could be devastating though.
  2. Penn State– Although thoroughly unimpressive and always failing the eye test, the Nittany Lions managed to dispose of Rutgers this past weekend. With an Ohio State win, Penn State should face Wisconsin with a possible playoff spot on the line.
  3. Oklahoma– The Sooners showed up in the biggest way possible this weekend in prime time. The defense is still anemic, but the offense can score with the best of them. The blowout loss to OSU hurts their chances, and they would need some help to get in.
  4. Colorado- Impressive win against Washington State this past weekend. The Buffs were clicking on all cylinders and are now just one win away from playing for a conference championship.
  5. Oklahoma State– Still a longshot, but if a number of teams above them lose and they can defeat Oklahoma in Bedlam, the committee may be willing to overlook the controversial loss to Central Michigan.

Eliminated This Week: Louisville, Utah, West Virginia