NCAA Football Saturday: The College Football Playoff Picture After Week 9

Yulia Chive

2 min read

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09-01-2025

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NCAA Football Saturday: The College Football Playoff Picture After Week 9

A chaotic Week 9 reshaped the College Football Playoff (CFP) landscape, leaving some teams soaring and others scrambling for survival. Let's break down the key takeaways and analyze the current playoff picture.

The Top Contenders Solidify Their Positions

Several teams cemented their spots at the top after impressive victories. Georgia, despite a slightly closer-than-expected win against Florida, remains the undisputed leader. Their dominant defense and consistent offensive firepower continue to impress. Michigan also strengthened their case with a convincing win over a tough opponent, showcasing the powerful running game and a stifling defense that has become their trademark. Their continued undefeated record keeps them firmly in the conversation for a top-four spot.

Ohio State's performance also warrants attention. While their game was closer than anticipated, their victory keeps them in the hunt. However, their remaining schedule will be a significant test of their playoff mettle.

The Contenders Fighting for a Spot

Several teams are battling fiercely for the remaining CFP spots. Texas A&M's impressive win against a ranked opponent improved their standing significantly, injecting new life into their playoff hopes. However, their road to the CFP remains steep, requiring near-flawless performances in the remaining games. USC, despite a stumble, still remains a formidable contender. Their offensive firepower is undeniable, but consistency will be crucial for securing a playoff berth. They need to win out and hope for some upsets along the way.

Penn State's win also kept them in the conversation. However, their chances depend significantly on the outcome of their remaining games and the performances of their competitors.

The Bubble Teams

Several teams remain on the bubble, clinging to the slimmest of hopes. Teams like LSU, despite their earlier strong performance, find themselves needing a near-miraculous run to even be considered. Their chances depend heavily on upsets within the top teams' schedules. Other bubble teams face similar scenarios, requiring not just victories but also substantial losses from the teams above them.

Key Matchups to Watch

The remaining weeks hold several critical matchups that will significantly impact the CFP picture. The upcoming games between top-ranked teams will be particularly crucial. Each victory or loss will drastically reshape the standings and playoff probabilities. Pay close attention to these matchups, as they will determine the final playoff participants.

Predictions and Projections

Predicting the final CFP lineup at this stage remains a challenging task. However, based on current standings and remaining schedules, a realistic projection would include Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio State. The fourth spot remains fiercely contested, with several teams vying for a place. The outcomes of the aforementioned key matchups will significantly influence the final decision.

It’s crucial to remember that this is a fluid situation, subject to change with every passing game. The final weeks of the season promise to be filled with high stakes and thrilling matchups that will ultimately decide the fate of the College Football Playoff.

What are your predictions for the final CFP lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!