The college football season kicked off with a bang last weekend, and already fans are buzzing about the College Football Playoff race. With the new 12-team format, every FBS team has a shot at making the field, adding an extra layer of excitement to the season. After just one week of action, there are some key takeaways that could shape the CFP race moving forward.
1. Be prepared for some lopsided matchups in December: In the past, blowout games were a common occurrence in the four-team CFP format. With the expanded field, we could see even more one-sided contests in the early rounds. Georgia’s dominant 34-3 win over Clemson showcased the Bulldogs’ strength, while the Tigers struggled to find their footing. Despite the loss, Clemson still has a shot at the Playoff if they can win the ACC.
2. Miami shines in a lackluster ACC: While the ACC had high hopes coming into the season, several top teams stumbled in Week 1. However, Miami emerged as a strong contender with a convincing 41-17 win over Florida. With a favorable schedule ahead, the Hurricanes could be a dark horse pick for the CFP.
3. Penn State makes a statement: Penn State’s impressive 34-12 victory over West Virginia solidified their status as a legitimate contender. The Nittany Lions’ offense looked dynamic, and quarterback Drew Allar showed promise in leading the team to victory. Penn State now has a strong chance of making the CFP, according to projections.
4. Notre Dame’s path to the Playoff: As an independent team, Notre Dame has a unique road to the Playoff. A season-opening win against Texas A&M has boosted their chances of qualifying for the expanded field. With a favorable schedule ahead, the Fighting Irish could be a strong contender this season.
5. Group of 5 teams face tough tests: The Group of 5 favorites narrowly escaped upsets in Week 1, setting the stage for challenging matchups against Power 4 teams. Boise State, Appalachian State, Liberty, and Memphis all face tough opponents in the coming weeks, which will test their credentials for a potential CFP spot.
Overall, the first week of college football provided a glimpse of what’s to come in the CFP race. With the expanded format, the competition is fiercer than ever, and every game matters. As the season progresses, expect more surprises and upsets that could shape the final Playoff field.
