Ohio State's recent losing streak to Michigan has sent them on a different path in the college football playoff race. After a potential top-four seed, they now face a rematch with Indiana in the opening round. Meanwhile, Arizona State has stepped up and is projected to win the Big 12, earning an opening-round bye. The nine Bowl Subdivision conference championship games this weekend will settle the debate before the playoff selection committee reveals the final rankings on Sunday.

Ohio State's Fate Hangs in the Balance as Arizona State Shines

Ohio State's Journey

The Buckeyes' fourth consecutive loss to Michigan was a significant blow. They went from being a top contender to having to battle it out in the opening round. Despite being one of four host teams in this first round, joining Notre Dame, Georgia, and Penn State, their recent form has raised questions. But their dominance over many teams this season cannot be ignored. They closed things out with a 66-0 rout of rival Purdue, showing their potential.

Arizona State's Ascent

Arizona State is on a roll. Projected to beat Iowa State and rise above Boise State in the final rankings, the Sun Devils have a chance to finish among the top four conference champions and secure a bye into the quarterfinals. Their performance this season has been remarkable, and they are looking to make a big impact in the playoffs.

SMU and Alabama's Scenario

SMU winning the ACC would be great news for Alabama. If the Mustangs beat Clemson, it could keep Alabama in the playoff picture. A win by Alabama would send them into a must-see matchup against Notre Dame in South Bend. The Crimson Tide is poised to be the last team in the field, and every game counts.

Big Ten and SEC Dominance

The Big Ten and the SEC lead the way with four teams each in the bracket. Oregon, Ohio State, Penn State, and Indiana from the Big Ten, and Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama from the SEC. These teams have shown their strength throughout the season and are vying for a spot in the playoffs.

Teams to Watch

Army's odds of reaching the playoff are low given the ranked matchup between Boise State and UNLV. They had a chance to move into the lead in the Group of Five by upsetting Notre Dame two weeks ago, but that opportunity slipped away.South Carolina couldn't overcome losses to Alabama and Mississippi. Despite a torrid run through the second half of the regular season with three wins against ranked competition, those head-to-head results overshadowed their efforts.Miami's chances of reaching the playoff are slim after losing to Syracuse and being eliminated from the ACC title game. Their second loss erased any hope of the ACC sending two teams into the bracket.Indiana benefited from some chaos in the SEC. Despite a one-sided loss to Ohio State in November, their dominance over nearly every other team this year earned them a solid playoff pick. They closed the season with a 66-0 rout of Purdue, showing their strength.