As college football fans eagerly await the highly anticipated College Football Playoff (CFP) Selection Sunday, the current probabilities for teams to secure a spot in the playoff are a hot topic of discussion. With the regular season nearing its end and conference championships on the horizon, let’s take a closer look at the teams with the highest chances of making it to the CFP.
1. Alabama Crimson Tide: As perennial contenders, the Alabama Crimson Tide have once again established themselves as one of the top teams in college football. Led by head coach Nick Saban, the Tide have dominated their opponents throughout the season, boasting an impressive undefeated record. With their strong performance and a history of success, Alabama is widely considered a lock for the playoff.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes: The Ohio State Buckeyes have been a force to be reckoned with this season. Led by quarterback Justin Fields and head coach Ryan Day, the Buckeyes have showcased their talent and depth on both sides of the ball. Despite playing fewer games than some other teams due to COVID-19 disruptions, Ohio State’s dominant victories and high ranking in the polls make them strong contenders for a playoff spot.
3. Clemson Tigers: The Clemson Tigers, led by star quarterback Trevor Lawrence, have been a perennial playoff team in recent years. Despite suffering a close loss to Notre Dame earlier in the season, Lawrence’s return from injury has revitalized the team. With their strong offense and solid defense, Clemson is expected to secure a playoff berth if they win their remaining games, including a potential rematch against Notre Dame in the ACC Championship.
4. Notre Dame Fighting Irish: Notre Dame has had a remarkable season so far, including a thrilling overtime victory against Clemson. The Fighting Irish’s strong defense and efficient offense have propelled them to an undefeated record and a top-four ranking. If they can maintain their winning streak and perform well in the ACC Championship game, Notre Dame has a high probability of making their second-ever CFP appearance.
5. Texas A&M Aggies: The Texas A&M Aggies have quietly put together an impressive season, with their only loss coming against Alabama. Head coach Jimbo Fisher has built a solid team that excels in both offense and defense. However, the Aggies’ playoff hopes rely heavily on the outcomes of other teams’ games and the committee’s evaluation of their overall resume. While they have a chance to make the playoff, it may require some favorable results from other contenders.
6. Florida Gators: The Florida Gators have had a strong season, led by quarterback Kyle Trask, who has emerged as a Heisman Trophy candidate. Despite a loss to Texas A&M earlier in the season, the Gators’ high-scoring offense has propelled them to victories against tough opponents. However, their playoff chances took a hit with a recent loss to LSU. To secure a playoff spot, Florida will likely need to win the SEC Championship and hope for some upsets among other contenders.
7. Cincinnati Bearcats: The Cincinnati Bearcats have been the standout team from the Group of Five conferences this season. With an undefeated record and impressive wins against ranked opponents, including a dominant victory over SMU, Cincinnati has proven themselves as a legitimate playoff contender. However, as a non-Power Five team, their path to the playoff is more challenging and relies heavily on other teams’ performances and the committee’s evaluation.
8. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers: One of the biggest surprises of the 2020 college football season has been the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers. With an undefeated record and wins against ranked opponents, including a thrilling victory over BYU, Coastal Carolina has captured national attention. However, similar to Cincinnati, their chances of making the playoff as a non-Power Five team are slim. Nonetheless, their impressive season has solidified them as one of the top teams outside of the traditional powerhouses.
As Selection Sunday approaches, these teams, among others, will anxiously await their fate. While the probabilities for each team to make the College Football Playoff are constantly changing due to the unpredictable nature of the sport, these contenders have positioned themselves well with strong performances throughout the season. Ultimately, it will be up to the CFP Selection Committee to determine which four teams will have the opportunity to compete for the national championship.
