Playoff Implications

By Mike Rifkin

It’s Thanksgiving time, which means Turkey, family, and football. It’s a big week in College Football as this is the final week before Conference Championship games. There’s still much to be decided regarding the College Football Playoff, so let’s look at the crucial games this week. 

UNDEFEATED

Ohio State at Michigan: Michigan has won the last two meetings against their arch-rivals. However, this one will have a different twist as Jim Harbaugh will be serving the last of his three-game suspension. Michigan has rushed for over 200 yards against the Buckeyes in the last two meetings. These are two of the best defenses in the country who rank in the top three in points allowed and yards allowed. The key to the game is how Kyle McCord will handle the pressure from Michigan’s defense and the noise at the “Big House.” For Michigan, the question is, can they slow down Marvin Harrison Jr. In the game last season, Harrison had seven catches for 120 yards and a touchdown. Harrison has 1,093 yards and 13 touchdowns this season, and he has some people talking about Heisman. 

Georgia at Georgia Tech: Georgia Tech has not beaten the Bulldogs since 2016, and the Bulldogs are playing their best football of the season. Georgia is coming off a 38-10 beatdown of Tennessee, but with Georgia Tech being sandwiched between that and Alabama in the SEC title game, the Jackets may have a chance. Also, bad news for the Jackets is Brock Bowers is back for the Bulldogs, and he has three touchdowns the last two years against the Jackets.

Washington at Washington State: Over the last three games, running back Dillon Johnson has rushed for 449 yards and five touchdowns. Compliment that with the way Michael Penix has played, the Husky’s offense has been sensational. Receiver Rome Odunze had five catches for 157 yards and a touchdown vs the Cougars last season. Michael Penix threw for 485 yards and three touchdowns in the Apple Cup last year.

Florida ST. At Florida, Jordan Travis is out for the season after suffering a severe leg injury. Florida St. still has talent on both sides of the ball. Having reliable weapons in Keon Coleman, Johnny Wilson, and Trey Benson can help the absence of the quarterback. Graham Mertz will miss the game for the Gators. 

ONE LOSS TEAMS

Alabama at Auburn: The “Iron Bowl” has had some epic historical moments, like the “kick six.” I don’t know how seriously I can take Auburn after being blown out by New Mexico ST. at home. Alabama has played well since their early season struggles, led by Jalen Milroe, who has been doing it all for the Tide.

Oregon State at Oregon: Last year, the Beavers scored 21 points in the fourth quarter to beat the Ducks. Since the loss to Washington earlier this year, Bo Nix and company have been on a mission to avenge that game. Against Washington last week, Oregon St. turned the ball over three times; they can’t do that against the Ducks.

Texas at Texas Tech: Last year, the Red Raiders beat the Longhorns, but Quinn Ewers didn’t play in that game. With a spot in the Big 12 title game, Texas can emphasize what has been a good season.

With one week left until Conference title games, this weekend will be about eating leftovers and narrowing down the field for the College Football Playoff.