As college football reaches the end of its season, the anticipation of the game builds for the seasonal playoffs. This year, teams have been nothing short of showing their true potential and competitiveness throughout their season making each team a strong competitor when playoffs arrive.
Going into the final weeks of the season, teams like Georgia, Oregon and Penn State have shown their skills and dominance making them reach towards the top of the lineup. Oregon is currently ranked number one with a 13-0 record, with Georgia not far behind with an 11-2 record. These two teams currently have the highest cumulative points, according to the NCAA rankings, with Oregon racking up a total of 1550 points, and Georgia with 1474. These top two teams are sure to dominate the playoffs coming up.
The teams of Notre Dame, Texas, Penn State and Ohio State have also secured their spot in the playoffs, as well as securing their title as powerhouse teams. While currently ranked behind teams of Georgia and Oregon, Notre Dame has a straight shot at securing their spot in the semi-finals, and saying they play well, there is a chance to dominate the finals as well. With Oregon ranked first, they have tough shoes to fill following last years’ champions, The University of Michigan. In order to keep this position in the playoffs, Oregon must withhold their strong defense with the games to come. If they keep this streak, making it to the finals game will be a breeze.
The University of Michigan was last years’ NCAA champion, but this year they have found themselves unranked. With last year’s cheating scandal regarding head coach Jim Harbaugh, Michigan not only lost their coach, but also key players such as running back Blake Corum and quarterback JJ Mcarthy. These key losses, as well as a tough 2024 lineup has not led Michigan to success yet this year, as they are now ranked seventh in the Big 10 conference. With playoffs not in sight for this season, hopefully Michigan can make their comeback in the years to come.
With playoffs starting Dec. 20, football fans across the country can hope to see intense games and maybe some unexpected victories. With Oregon and Texas leading the game, we will see if those teams will prevail, or if we will have an unexpected victor.
