by: James Fletcher III 26 minutes ago jdfletch3
Coming off the first College Football Playoff rankings last week, each team across the country got the first glimpse at what they needed to do the rest of the way. The weekend of results provide an updated look at the College Football Playoff Top 25 and which teams have a path toward the 12-team CFP bracket at the conclusion of the regular season.
The four conference champions from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12 and SEC, along with the highest ranked conference champion from the Group of Five are guaranteed a spot in the field, but not a first-round bye. The remaining seven bids will be filled by seven at-large qualifiers who can be slotted according to their ranking.
A slight shift from last seasons format, this brings added clarity to the process throughout the season and ensures the top teams will benefit from their resume. Those who finish between 5-12 will participate in the first round, hosted by the higher seed before subsequent rounds are played at traditional bowl sites.
Through 11 weeks of results, here is how the selection committee ranked the Top 25 teams with a chance to earn their spot in the upcoming 12-team College Football Playoff. As the resumes continue to shift, the rankings will reflect the latest landscape.
1. Ohio State
Ohio State maintains an undefeated record in the College Football Playoff rankings, solidly placing them above the field once again. The Buckeyes continue to roll behind the consistent approach of Ryan Day and a win against Purdue further backs that up.
2. Indiana
Indiana faced its toughest challenge of the season from an unlikely source this weekend, going down to the final play against Penn State. As Curt Cignetti and his team survive the adversity, they remain in prime position to compete atop the sport.
3. Texas A&M
Texas A&M controls their own destiny within the SEC as the only undefeated team left in the conference. Mike Elko has things rolling for a program which has overcome multiple tests already this season and dismissed any concerns against Missouri.
4. Alabama
Alabama picked up another SEC win to build its resume this weekend, taking care of business against LSU without major trouble. Kalen DeBoer appears to have the offense rolling with solid defense behind it as the postseason approaches.