2024 College Football Playoff Overview
By Ralph D. Russo, Matt Baker, Justin Williams, Joe Rexrode, and Sam Khan Jr. The highly anticipated 12-team College Football Playoff field is set to be announced on Sunday, but key outcomes will be shaped by Saturday’s Power 4 conference championship games. Boise State has already secured the first automatic bid following their performance on Friday.
SEC Championship Recap: Georgia vs. Texas
The No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs clinched the SEC championship with a dramatic 22-19 overtime victory over No. 2 Texas after a hard-fought battle. Despite being outgained 389 to 277 yards, Georgia managed to pull out the win with a pivotal touchdown run from Trevor Etienne. Backup quarterback Gunner Stockton took the reins after starter Carson Beck suffered an elbow injury.
Georgia’s SEC title win solidifies their position for a top seed in the Playoff, even with uncertainty surrounding Beck’s injury. The Bulldogs, now 11-2, are poised to receive a first-round bye and will enter the postseason aiming for their third national title in four years at the Sugar Bowl on January 1. Coach Kirby Smart mentioned Beck’s injury as an “upper extremity” issue pending further evaluation.
Texas’s Playoff Future
Following their loss, Texas is expected to drop in the rankings but remain in contention for a first-round home game. Teams like Indiana, Alabama, and Tennessee may be potential matchups in Austin. However, given their recent performance against Georgia, a significant reassessment by the selection committee is on the horizon.
Georgia’s Title Hopes and Challenges
Georgia’s gritty victory calls into question their readiness as a national title contender, primarily due to their stalling passing game. They were held to just 136 passing yards and zero touchdowns throughout the match. For Georgia to succeed in the playoffs, improvements in their passing attack will be imperative.
Arizona State’s Rise in the Big 12
In a stunning performance, the No. 15 Arizona State Sun Devils defeated the No. 16 Iowa State Cyclones 45-19 to capture the Big 12 title. After a rocky 2023 season, Arizona State, now a highly competitive team under second-year coach Kenny Dillingham, is poised for a strong playoff showing, having secured their first conference championship since 2007. They now seek to advance beyond the seeding discussions, especially given their recent form and a six-game winning streak.
Heisman Hopes for Cam Skattebo
Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo has entered the Heisman conversation following an outstanding performance against Iowa State, gaining 208 total yards and scoring three touchdowns. As he finishes the season with impressive statistics, Skattebo has established himself as a contender for college football’s most prestigious individual award.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Implications
With the Playoff selection on the horizon, attention turns to upcoming games that could shape final rankings, seeding, and matchups. The clash between No. 8 SMU and No. 17 Clemson will be crucial for both teams’ playoff aspirations. Meanwhile, the championship battle featuring No. 1 Oregon against No. 3 Penn State will not only determine a frontrunner for a first-round bye but could impact the final seed placements within the 12-team bracket.
Stay tuned as we provide further updates and analysis on the unfolding College Football Playoff scenario throughout the day.
Source and credits: www.nytimes.com
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