SEC Setbacks Impact Latest College Football Playoff Rankings: Does Alabama Still Have a Shot?

Press Article: College Football Playoff Rankings Shake-Up Benefits Teams Outside the SEC

The latest College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings unveiled a significant shift as SEC powerhouses Alabama and Ole Miss fell out of the playoff picture following their third losses of the season. This shake-up opened the door for schools like SMU and Indiana to capitalize, with SMU climbing to No. 9 and Indiana holding steady at No. 10 despite a decisive loss to Ohio State.

For the fourth consecutive week, unbeaten Oregon tops the 12-team bracket, highlighting its ongoing dominance this season. SMU’s rise to No. 9 and a robust showing from ACC rivals Miami and Clemson, now ranked sixth and twelfth respectively, signal a competitive landscape beyond the SEC. "We needed some help," acknowledged SMU coach Rhett Lashlee, as his team benefitted from SEC defeats.

Indiana’s slight drop of five spots, despite a 38-15 setback against Ohio State, suggests the committee still respects their overall performance. Michigan athletic director and selection committee chair Warde Manuel noted, "We were impressed with some of the things Indiana did," reinforcing the Hoosiers’ playoff viability.

Conversely, the Big 12’s representation diminished drastically after losses by its top teams, BYU and Colorado, with Arizona State sneaking in at No. 12. This struggle hints at the possibility of a one-bid conference.

As the playoff picture continues to evolve, notable matchups loom, including Michigan facing Ohio State and Texas going up against Texas A&M, both pivotal in determining playoff spots. With more rankings to come before the final bracket on December 8, the college football landscape remains dynamic, promising thrilling games leading into the playoffs starting December 20.

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