College Football Playoff Expands to 12 Teams

The College Football Playoff (CFP) is expanding to 12 teams this season, which aims to reduce longstanding 'what-if' debates about national championship qualifications. Alabama has recently moved up to No. 10 in the CFP rankings following a significant victory over LSU, boosting its playoff prospects. Meanwhile, Georgia's recent loss to Ole Miss has raised questions about its playoff viability, despite having one of the toughest schedules this season. The new playoff format grants five automatic qualifying spots and seven at-large bids, with the top four conference champions receiving first-round byes. Alabama is currently projected as a No. 7 seed and is anticipated to face Indiana in the playoffs, but complex standings and required wins are critical for their championship hopes. The updated CFP rankings are expected to bring further clarity to these playoff scenarios.