Each week, the Las Vegas Review-Journal projects which four teams are most likely to reach the College Football Playoff semifinals, with the title game set for Allegiant Stadium on Jan. 25. This week’s projections reflect a chaotic season marked by unexpected results, including unranked Auburn’s win over Georgia, Alabama’s second straight loss, and Notre Dame’s missed opportunity in Provo.
Miami remains unbeaten after surviving two overtime heaves against Florida State, earning the Review-Journal’s top spot due to a clear path ahead, despite not being considered the best team. Texas Tech stayed unbeaten with J’Koby Williams rushing for 165 yards and two touchdowns on just 11 carries in a 53-25 win over Arizona State, positioning them strongly for a top-four seed with a smooth conference road ahead.
Ohio State avoided a second loss thanks to Indiana’s defeat, but lost quarterback Julian Sayin in the process, making it difficult to rank them higher until they prove they can win without him. North Dakota State beat UNR 31-17, with Nathan Hayes accounting for three touchdowns and Jackson Williams returning a missed field goal 100 yards for a score, while UNLV lost 41-31 at Air Force but still holds a path to a fourth straight Mountain West title game.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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