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The College Football Playoff field for 2024 is set to expand to 12 teams for the first time, with automatic bids going to the Power 4 conference champions. After Boise State secured the first automatic bid, the remaining spots were determined by the conference championship games. The experts have weighed in with essential reads on the Playoff race, including projections for the highly debated final spot between SMU and Alabama.
In the ACC championship, Clemson emerged victorious with a dramatic field goal to secure their Playoff berth, leaving SMU on the bubble for the final spot. Despite Alabama’s schedule strength and record against Top 25 teams, SMU’s conference dominance and close losses to top teams make a strong case for their inclusion.
Meanwhile, in the Big Ten, Oregon clinched the top seed with a win over Penn State, setting up a Rose Bowl matchup against the winner of the 8 vs. 9 game. Georgia claimed the SEC championship in overtime against Texas, solidifying their spot as the No. 2 seed in the Playoff despite concerns over an injury to their starting quarterback.
In the Big 12, Arizona State shocked Iowa State to win the conference title and secure a Playoff bid, completing a remarkable turnaround under second-year coach Kenny Dillingham. The Sun Devils are now vying for a first-round bye and potentially a higher seed in the Playoffs.
With the Playoff field finalized, the stage is set for an exciting and competitive postseason as teams battle for the national championship. The expanded format promises to bring new matchups and storylines, making this year’s College Football Playoff one to watch.
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