UPDATE: The latest College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings have just been released, and no changes have occurred in the top five teams. As of November 7, 2023, Ohio State and Indiana hold strong positions, while BYU has slid down the rankings following a significant loss.
The CFP selection committee has confirmed that the top four seeds—Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, and Alabama—will enjoy opening round byes if the playoffs were set today. This shift highlights a critical change in the selection process, where top seeds are now awarded to the best teams rather than solely conference champions.
The SEC continues to dominate, claiming eight spots in the top 25, with seven of the top 14 rankings. The Big Ten follows with six, while the ACC and Big 12 take five and four spots, respectively.
In a closely watched move, Oregon has risen to No. 8 after a last-minute victory over No. 21 Iowa. However, with a record of 8-1, another loss could jeopardize their playoff hopes. Meanwhile, Notre Dame improved to No. 9, asserting their position as the highest-ranked two-loss team. Committee Chair Mack Rhoades praised their performance, stating, “Their run game is as good as anybody, if not the best in the country.” The Irish, currently at 7-2, must secure victories against Pittsburgh, Syracuse, and Stanford to solidify their playoff chances.
As it stands, the final playoff berth would go to No. 10 Texas, also with a 7-2 record. Their upcoming games against No. 5 Georgia and No. 3 Texas A&M will be crucial. A split in those contests could set the stage for Texas to become the first three-loss team to make the CFP.
In a surprising twist, Brigham Young has plummeted to No. 12 after a heavy defeat against Texas Tech. The Cougars, now 8-1, are no longer seen as playoff contenders. Similarly, Utah, ranked No. 13, faces an uphill battle with a lack of challenging opponents remaining on their schedule.
The highest-ranked team from the ACC is Miami at No. 15, underscoring the conference’s struggles this season. The chaotic results have left the Hurricanes below several teams from the Big 12, marking a second consecutive week of disappointing rankings for the ACC.
Notably, USC and Michigan are positioned at No. 17 and No. 18, respectively, both with two losses. They remain in striking distance of the top rankings, especially with key matchups ahead.
In a positive development for the Group of Five conferences, South Florida has entered the rankings at No. 24, following a strong season at 7-2. If they win out in the American Conference, they could secure a playoff spot.
The committee’s decisions reflect a shifting landscape in college football, where the implications of these rankings are felt profoundly across fan bases and programs. With the season progressing, all eyes will be on the upcoming games that could alter the playoff picture dramatically.
Next Steps: Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as teams prepare for their last few critical matches. The stakes are high, and with the CFP picture still fluid, every game counts.
