Utah just officially punched its ticket into the College Football Playoff bracket, making them the new Big 12 favorite, and Alabama’s already rocketed up to the No. 2 seed after a brutal Week 5 performance that’s got everyone talking. The CFP picture is shifting fast, and it feels like November stakes are already here even though October just started. This isn’t just a minor shake-up folks, we’re seeing contenders separate themselves and preseason favorites losing serious ground across the board.
Alabama’s SEC Domination Is For Real
Look, if anyone had questions about Alabama’s status as a legit CFP title contender, Keelon Russell and that Crimson Tide offense stomped ’em out. Their 56-23 thumping of previously unbeaten Mississippi State was a road statement, pure and simple. Alabama is setting the pace in college football’s most unforgiving conference, locking down that projected No. 2 seed. And guess what? The SEC is holding two of the projected top four seeds right now, not even counting top-ranked Texas. These teams are fighting for first-round byes while trying to survive the weekly grind. Just ask previously unbeaten Florida about the reality check they got at Missouri. The Tide is meeting Georgia next week, and that one is gonna be an absolute slugfest.
New Faces Shaking Up the Bowl Scene
Beyond the big names, we’re seeing some fresh blood in the postseason projections. Utah’s jump into the CFP top four is a major move. Florida State, under Coach Mike Norvell, is new to the bowl projections this week too after a 31-point backhand of Virginia. Quarterback Ashton Daniels went off, rushing for 136 yards and five touchdowns. If they had slightly better execution away against SMU, they’d have a nearly flawless resume at Alabama. That’s the kind of fight you want to see. Out in the minor bowls, we’ve got some wild action, too. North Texas opened conference play with a thrilling 45-44 win in overtime at Tulsa. UCF transfer Tayven Jackson was a beast at QB with five total touchdowns. Baylor Hayes had five touchdowns for Tulsa, but it wasn’t enough after North Texas shut them down in OT. Our very own Washington State Cougars are projected for the Puerto Rico Bowl against Toledo, which is pretty cool! And the Huskies? They just dropped a tough one to USC, 25-21.
The college football landscape is getting wild with major changes inside the CFP top 12. We’ve got so much action ahead, with teams scrapping for every inch. Don’t blink now, because these October games are going to feel like championship battles, shaping who truly earns a spot in the big dance.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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