In the world of college football, the 2023 season is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling yet. With no dominant team in sight, a 12-team playoff seems like the perfect solution to ensure that every deserving team gets a shot at the national title. Join me as we explore the current rankings, potential matchups, and the excitement that lies ahead in this expanded playoff format.
The Ideal Scenario for a 12-Team Playoff
Explore why the 2023 college football season presents the perfect opportunity for a 12-team playoff
As we delve into the 2023 college football season, it becomes evident that there is no clear-cut dominant team. Instead, we find ourselves in a unique situation where numerous teams have showcased their talent and potential. This sets the stage for a 12-team playoff, ensuring that no deserving team is left out of the national title race.
Next year, the playoff format will expand to include 12 teams, with automatic bids for conference champions and at-large selections. However, for the purpose of this exercise, we will use the current rankings and the original six champs-six at-large formula. Let's take a closer look at the teams in contention and the potential matchups that await us.
Seeding and First-Round Matchups
Discover the current seeding and the exciting first-round matchups in the 12-team playoff
After five weeks of intense competition, the current seeding for the 12-team playoff is as follows:
- Georgia (SEC champ)
- Michigan (Big Ten champ)
- Texas (Big 12 champ)
- Florida State (ACC champ)
- Ohio State
- Penn State
- Washington (Pac-12 champ)
- Oregon
- USC
- Notre Dame
- Alabama
- Fresno State (MWC champ)
With Alabama making a late surge, the first-round matchups have undergone some changes. Let's take a closer look at the exciting matchups that await us:
Fresno State at Ohio State – Winner plays Florida State
Fresno State, led by quarterback Mikey Keene, will face a tough challenge against the powerhouse Ohio State. Although Fresno State has had a remarkable season, the Buckeyes' firepower might prove to be too much to handle. The winner of this matchup will advance to face Florida State in the next round.
Alabama at Penn State – Winner plays Texas
Two iconic programs collide as Alabama takes on Penn State in what promises to be an epic showdown. With a massive crowd and the prospect of facing Texas in the next round, both teams will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of victory. This matchup is a dream come true for college football fans.
Notre Dame at Washington – Winner plays Michigan
Notre Dame faces a daunting challenge as they travel to Washington to take on the formidable Huskies. The Irish have a perfect record against U-Dub, but with quarterback Michael Penix Jr. leading the charge, the Huskies are a force to be reckoned with. Will Notre Dame continue their winning streak, or will the Huskies pull off an upset?
USC at Oregon – Winner plays Georgia
A Pac-12 showdown awaits as USC clashes with Oregon in a battle of two talented quarterbacks. While both teams possess offensive firepower, it will be the defense that makes the difference. Oregon, eager to avenge last year's loss to Georgia, will be looking for redemption. Will USC stand in their way, or will the Ducks get their shot at redemption?