Playoff predictions and rankings:
1. Alabama - Undisputed, undefeated. They will beat Florida and enter the playoffs as the defending champions. Will likely open the round against a Big 10 opponent, either Michigan, Penn State or Wisconsin.
2. Ohio State - Secured a spot despite not winning the Big 10 Championship. Will hold onto this #2 spot with very slim to no chance of getting snubbed. Predict they will go up against Washington.
3. Washington - Believe they will beat Colorado on Friday night to cement their case for a ticket to the show. They get a top 10 ranked opponent in the PAC 12 championship game which should propel their leap to #3.
4. UFG - Up for grabs. Will be interesting to see if Michigan or which Big 10 winner gets the final spot.
- Michigan can make a case for multiple wins against top ranked teams that includes: current #9 Colorado, #8 Wisconsin and #7 Penn State. A damn good resume and they won't slip too much after a hard fought battle with Ohio State in a game that could've easily went either way. My odds on favorite to get the last seat.
- Wisconsin has wins over: then #5 LSU, then #8 Michigan State, then #7 Nebraska, and a win over Penn State and the Big 10 Championship will look great. Only caveat is they lost to Michigan in the regular season. Even if they win the Big 10 title, I don't think they will get enough love over the Wolverines.
- Penn State, If they win the Big 10, I'm not sure if that will be enough help their case to jump Michigan. Their blowout loss to Michigan might be the only reason the committee holds against them. Only significant win was against #2 Ohio State.
UPSET: I predict VT will upset Clemson and win the ACC title and that kicks Clemson out of the playoff race. VT would love nothing but to play spoiler.This game seems to be flying under the radar and most people believe Clemson will be a lock for a playoff spot - not so fast!! Hokies will roll.
Final rankings:
1. Alabama
2. Ohio State
3. Washington
4. Michigan (Thanks to VT) This decision will spark debates, and winning in a power five conference doesn't guarantee a playoff spot.
1st round Semi-Finals:
#1 Alabama vs #4 Michigan
#2 Ohio State vs #3 Washington
Championship:
#1 Alabama vs #3 Washington