After a long offseason, college football is nearly upon us. This season, we’re witnessing one of the most dramatic changes in the sport’s history with major conference realignment. Texas and Oklahoma are making their way to the SEC, while Washington, Oregon, UCLA, and USC are joining the Big Ten. The dissolution of the Pac-12 has led to Arizona, Arizona State, Utah, and Colorado heading to the Big 12, while Stanford and Cal, along with SMU, will be part of the newly revamped ACC. In a significant shift, the Power 4 conferences will forgo divisions this year, leading to the top two teams from each conference meeting in their championship games following the regular season.
Photo Cred: SB Nation
The most groundbreaking change, however, is the debut of the 12-team College Football Playoff. Since its inception in 2014, the CFP has featured a four-team format, delivering memorable semifinals like Georgia vs. Ohio State and TCU’s thrilling victory over Michigan. With the expanded 12-team playoff, featuring first-round games hosted on college campuses and subsequent rounds played at traditional bowl venues, fans can expect even more excitement and a fair chance for all deserving teams.
Photo Cred: NCAA
This year’s playoff structure includes automatic berths for the top five conference champions, with the top four receiving first-round byes. The fifth spot will be awarded to the highest-ranked Group of Five champion, and the remaining seven spots are reserved for at-large bids. This new format ensures that undefeated teams like Florida State from last year won’t be left out and provides opportunities for teams with one or two losses, such as Penn State or Ole Miss, to compete for the title. Here are my predictions for the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff field!
First-Round Byes (Seeds 1-4)
Ohio State Buckeyes (Big Ten Champions)
After a few down years by their lofty standards, including losses to Michigan and a narrow miss against Georgia, Ohio State is primed for a resurgence in 2024. They’ve added former Kansas State quarterback Will Howard and superstar running back Quinshon Judkins to bolster an already potent offense. With star receivers like Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate, and a defense fortified by safety Caleb Downs, the Buckeyes are poised to dominate the Big Ten and contend for the national championship.
Key Games: October 12th @ Oregon, November 30th vs. Michigan
Georgia Bulldogs (SEC Champions)
Georgia, fresh off two consecutive national titles and a tough loss to Alabama in last year’s SEC Championship, returns with a roster brimming with talent. Quarterback Carson Beck is back, and the offense has been reloaded with key portal additions. Despite a daunting SEC schedule, including pivotal matchups against Texas and Alabama, Georgia’s depth and skill should carry them to the top of the conference and deep into the playoffs.
Key Games: September 28th @ Alabama, October 19th @ Texas
Florida State Seminoles (ACC Champions)
Florida State, which finished a perfect 13-0 last season but missed out on the CFP due to an injury to quarterback Jordan Travis, has reloaded with transfer quarterback DJ Uiagalelei. With standout playmakers on both sides of the ball and significant ACC rivals like Clemson and Miami on the schedule, FSU is set to make a strong push for the 12-team playoff, driven by the disappointment of last year’s exclusion.
Key Games: October 5th vs. Clemson, November 9th @ Notre Dame
Utah Utes (Big 12 Champions)
With Texas and Oklahoma departing, the Big 12 is wide open, and Utah stands as a formidable contender. The Utes, coming off back-to-back Pac-12 titles, boast a stout defense and a returning quarterback in Cam Rising. Under the guidance of coach Kyle Whittingham, Utah is well-positioned to surpass teams like Kansas State and Oklahoma State and claim the top spot in the Big 12.
Key Games: September 21st @ Oklahoma State, September 28th vs. Arizona
At-Large Bids (Seeds 5-11)
Oregon Ducks (Big Ten Runners-Up)
Oregon could potentially edge out Ohio State at home, but I anticipate the Buckeyes will get their revenge in the Big Ten Championship. Regardless, the Ducks are primed to make a significant impact in the expanded playoff. With Dillon Gabriel at quarterback and a roster built for high-level competition, Oregon is set for a strong postseason run, potentially facing Boise State in their playoff opener.
Key Games: October 12th vs. Ohio State, November 2nd @ Michigan
Texas Longhorns (SEC Runners-Up)
With Quinn Ewers returning and new additions like Alabama’s Isaiah Bond, Texas is poised for another standout season. Their schedule, featuring games against Georgia and Michigan, will be a true test, but the Longhorns are well-equipped to make a deep playoff run. They’re projected to face Miami in the first round of the playoffs.
Key Games: September 9th @ Michigan, October 19th vs. Georgia
Alabama Crimson Tide
Even with Nick Saban retiring, Alabama remains a powerhouse under new head coach Kalen DeBoer. With quarterback Jalen Milroe leading the charge, the Crimson Tide will continue to be a formidable force. Despite a challenging schedule, including key matchups against Georgia and several ranked teams, Alabama is expected to secure a playoff spot, likely facing Penn State in the opening round.
Key Games: September 28th vs. Texas, November 9th @ LSU
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Often on the brink of the playoffs, Notre Dame has a strong chance to break through this year. With transfer quarterback Riley Leonard and a favorable schedule, the Fighting Irish are positioned for success. They’re projected to host Ole Miss in the first round of the playoffs.
Key Games: August 31st @ Texas A&M, November 9th vs. Florida State
Ole Miss Rebels
After a successful 11-2 season, Ole Miss is looking to make its mark as an SEC powerhouse. With quarterback Jaxson Dart and significant improvements across the board, the Rebels are set for a strong season. Ole Miss is expected to secure a playoff berth and face Notre Dame in the first round.
Key Games: October 12th @ LSU, November 9th vs. Georgia
Penn State Nittany Lions
The expanded playoff format is a significant opportunity for Penn State. With an elite defense and a favorable schedule, including a crucial game against Ohio State, the Nittany Lions are set to make their first playoff appearance. They’re projected to face Alabama in the playoffs.
Key Games: August 31st @ West Virginia, November 2nd vs. Ohio State
Miami Hurricanes
After a disappointing 7-6 season, Miami looks to rebound with star quarterback Cam Ward and key returning players. With improvements on both sides of the ball, the Hurricanes should secure a playoff berth and face Texas in the first round.
Key Games: September 27th vs. Virginia Tech, October 26th vs. Florida State
Boise State Broncos (G5 Autobid)
Boise State is a top contender from the Group of Five and should earn the automatic bid. With quarterback Maddux Madsen and standout running back Ashton Jeanty leading the charge, the Broncos are primed for a strong season, potentially facing Oregon in the playoffs.
Key Games: September 28th vs. Washington State, November 29th vs. Oregon State
So there you have it! These predictions outline a thrilling path for the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. While rankings and outcomes may shift as the season progresses and upsets inevitably occur, these teams have the potential to make a strong case for playoff success. With significant conference realignment, exciting matchups, and a groundbreaking playoff format, this college football season is set to be one for the books. Buckle up and get ready—this season promises to deliver drama and excitement like never before!
