The College Football Playoff race took an unexpected turn over the weekend, with Colorado emerging as one of the biggest winners despite key players like Deion Sanders and Travis Hunter grabbing headlines. As Iowa State and Kansas State suffered losses, the Buffaloes found themselves in a favorable position in the Big 12 standings.
Last season, Colorado only managed to win one conference game, but this year, they have a real shot at making a Playoff run. With only one undefeated team left in the Big 12 (BYU), the Buffaloes are now tied for second place with Iowa State. Their upcoming games against teams at the bottom of the conference give them a clear path to the Championship Game.
For Colorado to secure their Playoff fate, they only need Iowa State to suffer a loss. Even if that doesn’t happen, they could still qualify for the Championship Game through tiebreakers. The Buffs are just one step away from potentially playing in the Playoff, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement of college football.
In the ACC, Clemson’s recent loss to Louisville dealt a blow to their chances of putting two teams in the bracket. Miami remains a strong contender for the conference title, with SMU also in the mix. The Big Ten looks poised to secure multiple Playoff spots, with Ohio State and Indiana leading the charge.
In the SEC, the race for the automatic bid is wide open, with five teams holding just one conference loss. The Group of 5 picture is also intriguing, with Boise State’s Playoff hopes on the rise. Other teams like Notre Dame are benefiting from results in the ACC and Big 12, bolstering their chances of making the field.
As the college football season heads towards its climax, the Playoff picture is becoming clearer yet more unpredictable. Colorado’s unexpected rise is a testament to the competitive nature of the sport, where every game and every result can have a significant impact on the postseason outcomes.