Good Bull Hunting - The College Football Playoff Quest 2015Beating the hell outta the blogospherehttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/50575/gbh-fav.png2015-11-19T14:13:20-06:00http://www.goodbullhunting.com/rss/stream/94047152015-11-19T14:13:20-06:002015-11-19T14:13:20-06:00The playoffs are still a thing?
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<p>It's hard to care with Belk Bowl implications on the line.
<br>Regardless, here are some thoughts about the CFB Playoffs, in case you do care, even just a little. </p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph4" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph">Last weekend, eight ranked teams lost. Not a bad weekend; but we could have had more upheaval if Iowa State, Minnesota, South Carolina, Indiana, and Kansas would have pulled through with the upsets. The biggest surprise is that both Pac 12 contenders lost; thus eliminating the conference from meaningful playoff discussion.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph">This upcoming weekend will provide more movement as all teams are in action, and 12 of the teams play another playoff team, guaranteeing some losses. There are cupcakes being consumed, which could lead to a winning team being jumped. In addition, there are a few teams on upset alert from non ranked teams.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">FOUR IN:</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph5" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#1</b> <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="5" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/">Clemson Tigers</a></b> (10-0): Last Week @ Syracuse 37-27. Next up Wake Forest. Coach <a href="http://espn.go.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/14058332/can-clemson-deliver-dabo-swinney-pizza-promise" target="_blank">Dabo's Pizzeria is still on schedule to deliver the largest pizza party</a> for an age. That's a fun promise Coach. College football is fun. Clemson will be on cruise control through Wake Forest and against in-state rival South Carolina. South Carolina would love to ruin Clemson's chances though. That's what rivals do, right Jimmy Gardner? The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/">Tigers</a> will then have the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/acc-championship-game">ACC championship</a> game against most likely #17 UNC. Focus on the pizza.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph6" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#2 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512; text-decoration: underline;" data-ref-index="6" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rollbamaroll.com/">Alabama Crimson Tide</a></b> (9-1): Last Week @#17 Mississippi State 31-6. Next up Charleston Southern. Cupcakes in November seem out of place. It's a conspiracy to give Bama's starters a rest before playing in-state rival Auburn PAWWWLLLL! What, Auburn plays Idaho? Oh never mind...</p>
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<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph7" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#3</b> <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="7" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/">Ohio State Buckeyes</a> </b>(10-0): Last Week @ Illinois 28-3. Next up #9 Michigan State. Ohio State faces its first ranked team of the season. <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/bigten/post/_/id/127084/connor-cook-says-injured-shoulder-will-be-ready-to-go-for-ohio-state" target="_blank">Connor Cook says his shoulder is ready to go</a>, but I seem to remember another QB who everyone says his shoulder is healthy and struggled mightily against Ole Miss. [sobs]. Ohio State still has the big rivalry game against Michigan to close out the season. I don't see how tOSU makes it out without a loss.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#4</b> <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="8" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.onefootdown.com/">Notre Dame Fighting Irish</a></b> (9-1): Last Week Wake Forest 28-7. Next up Boston College. College Football in baseball stadiums is dumb. Standing room only tickets are going for $200 which is high for a bad view, in a baseball stadium converted to host a football game... just dumb, and that's all I have to say about that. /end hottaek</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph9" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">IN THE HUNT:</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph10" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph">#5 <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="9" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/">Iowa Hawkeyes</a></b> (10-0): Last Week Minnesota 40-35. Next up Purdue. Operation Iowa crashing the playoffs is right on queue. That's all I really care about. I think Iowa should be in over Ohio State right now, as the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/">Hawkeyes</a> have wins over Wisconsin and Northwestern. Also that win over Pitt looks pretty good. Iowa will get no love for beating 2-8 Purdue this weekend.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph13" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#6 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="12" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/">O</a></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="13" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/">klahoma State Cowboys</a></b> (10-0): Last Week @Iowa State 35-31. Next up #10 Baylor. Coach Mike Gundy survived Ames last weekend and shook off the ghosts of 2011. This week, OSU has an interesting match up with Baylor. Baylor has a glaring weakness with defending the run; but OSU does not run the ball well. If OSU cannot find a run game, they could be in trouble.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#7 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; text-decoration: underline; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="19" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/">Oklahoma Sooners</a> </b>(9-1): Last Week @ #6 Baylor 44-34. Next up @ #18 TCU. Boykin is a maybe for this game; but even if he plays he will be hobbled a bit with his ankle. This should allow the Sooner defense to do what it does against non-running QBs (Swoopes isn't mobile, but a running QB). Vegas has still not put a line out. Vegas knows OU is going to win.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#8 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="18" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/">Florida Gators</a></b> (9-1): Last Week @ South Carolina 24-14. Next up Florida Atlantic. I started looking for Gifs of <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/">Gators</a> eating bird like creatures; but got <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCGKbgkisxc" target="_blank">distracted by an Otter that eats alligators</a>. AN OTTER! That's cool as shit. But an Owl is a whole otter animal. Florida wins big before its show down with in-state rival Florida State. <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#9 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="20" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.theonlycolors.com/">Michigan State Spartans</a></b> (9-1): Last Week Maryland 24-7. Next up @#3 Ohio State. Beat Ohio State, and Michigan State should win its division for a chance at Iowa. MSU is ranked high enough to still play into the playoffs if it beats undefeated OSU and Iowa. Could happen, but QB Connor Cook's shoulder might be too banged up to deliver.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal"><br><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#10</b> <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; text-decoration: underline; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="10" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ourdailybears.com/">Baylor Bears</a></b> (8-1): Last Week #12 OU 34-44. Next up @ #6 Oklahoma State. The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ourdailybears.com/">Bears</a> faced real competition for the first time and looked decent. OU just looked more decent. QB Jarrett Stidham played through an injury all game and could not escape the Sooner pass rush. The Bears can rebound against Oklahoma State and throw the Big 12 picture into more confusion.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#11 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="11" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ruleoftree.com/">Stanford Cardinal</a></b> (8-2): Last Week Oregon 36-38. Next up Cal. STANFORD IS RANKED THIS HIGH TO BOOST NOTRE DAME'S PLAYOFF RESUME, PAWWLLL! The Pac 12 is out, but Stanford can spoil Notre Dame's chances.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph22" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#12 </b> <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="21" href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Michigan Wolverines</a> </b>(8-2): Last Week @ Indiana 48-41. Next up @ Penn State. Michigan has not shown good game control the last few weeks, but manages to continue winning. Penn State may put a stop to that. <br><br><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#13 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; text-decoration: underline; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="17" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blocku.com/">Utah Utes</a> </b>(8-2): Last Week @ Arizona 30-37. Next up UCLA. I'll take "Games with no playoff implications", Trebek.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph24" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#14 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="25" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/">Florida State Seminoles</a> </b>(8-2): Last Week NC State 34-17. Next up Chattanooga. That's so SEC of you to play a November cupcake. FSU's only playoff implication is ruining in-state rival Florida's slim chance of a spot.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph25" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#15 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="color: #4b1512; box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;" data-ref-index="14" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com/">LSU Tigers</a></b> (7-2): Last Week @ BAMA 14-31. Next up @#22 Ole Miss. Two straight losses to two very physical teams. Can LSU pull it together to face rival Ole Miss? Can the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com/">Tigers</a> be really beat up (not injured; don't wish that ill on anyone) before playing A&M? Please?</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph26" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#16</b> <b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">Navy* Midshipmen</b> (8-1) Last Week SMU 55-14. Next up @ Tulsa. Navy has a shot of derailing Houston and getting to a New Year's Six Bowl. That's pretty cool, Navy.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#17 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">North Carolina Tarheels</b> (9-1): Last Week Miami 59-21. Next up @ Virginia Tech. I think UNC should be ranked higher, but that early loss to South Carolina is a big hangup. Also, UNC's best win is against Pitt. Their only shot is upsetting Clemson in the ACC Championship Game.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#18 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512; text-decoration: underline;" data-ref-index="23" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.frogsowar.com/">TCU Horned Frogs</a></b> (9-1): Last Week Kansas 23-17. Next up #7 OU. TCU has been hit by the injury bug and has lost its best WR for the season. Boykin is banged up, and without him, their offense really struggles. Sounds like he is our Johnny Manziel...</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#19 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="32" class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/houston-cougars">Houston Cougars</a></b> (10-0): Last Week #21 Memphis 35-34. Next up @ UConn. Houston scored 21 points in the fourth quarter from its backup QB, Kyle Postma, to complete the come from behind win to remain unbeaten. I really like this Houston team. QB Greg Ward Jr., is practicing but is limited, so that is something to keep an eye on. He will most likely play, but Houston shouldn't be in too much trouble if Postma has to start against UConn. That game against Navy will be fun. The AAC is fun.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph35" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b>The Revolving Door</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#20 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="27" href="https://www.insidenu.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Northwestern Wildcats</a> </b>(8-2) Last Week Purdue 21-14. Next up @#25 Wisconsin. Northwestern is currently a 10 point underdog to Wisconsin. High likelihood of being shown the door and removed from this ranking.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph36" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#21 </b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"><a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="31" class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/memphis-tigers">Memphis Tigers</a></b> (8-2): Last Week Navy 34-35. Next up @ Temple. This game isn't as important as once thought midway through the season, but it will still host two good football teams.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph37" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph">#<b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">22</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/">Ole Miss Rebels</a> </b>(7-3): Last Week BYE. Next up #15 LSU. Ole Miss impressed the committee with their BYE win to jump Wisconsin, who was also on Bye. Yes, you read that correctly. <span>¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Ole Miss keeps finding a way to become ranked again. They catch a reeling LSU team at home. Things could get interesting. </span></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph38" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#23 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.addictedtoquack.com/">Oregon Ducks</a> </b>(7-3): Last Week #7 Stanford 38-36. Next up #24 USC.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><br><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#24 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.conquestchronicles.com/">USC Trojans</a> </b>(7-3): Last Week @ Colorado 27-24. Next up @#23 Oregon. <br>At least these two teams play each other this week; which will eliminate one for good. Oregon and USC can still win their divisions, so there is still a <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/rose-bowl">Rose Bowl</a> to play for. Both teams have improved as the season has gone on. Novel concept.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" id="paragraph40" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;"></b><b style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;">#25 <a style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; color: #4b1512;" data-ref-index="33" class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/">Wisconsin Badgers</a> </b>(8-2) Last Week BYE. Next up #20 NW. Wisconsin is ranked to merely boost Alabama and Iowa's rankings. /endconspiracyrant Wisconsin is a clear favorite this weekend against higher ranked Northwestern. The Badgers have the opportunity to climb in these polls and elevate their bowl selection. But too many B1G teams ahead of them.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b>RIP</b></p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph">Mississippi State, UCLA, Temple.</p>
<p style="box-sizing: border-box; -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; font-family: 'Mercury SSm A', 'Mercury SSm B', Georgia, serif; margin-top: 1em; line-height: 24px; color: #292929; font-size: 16px;" class="MsoNormal pgh-paragraph"><b></b>There are just a few more weeks of regular season College Football. Enjoy it.</p>
https://www.goodbullhunting.com/2015/11/19/9757496/the-college-football-playoff-landscape-and-post-season-implicationswhoopy2015-11-13T19:30:02-06:002015-11-13T19:30:02-06:00CLEMSON LEADS PLAYOFFS JUST AS EVERYONE PREDICTED
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3A9YxG4fUCk8p2LJb4Bme9iDLJE=/0x144:2404x1747/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47651319/usa-today-8256316.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>This is just a shadow of what is to come, but the playoff picture is coming into focus. </p> <p class="MsoNormal">This is a difficult piece to write with an inevitable Belk Bowl bid looming for Texas A&M, but the playoff marches on. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.collegefootballplayoff.com/view-rankings#week-10">The College Football Playoff Committee released its second rankings Tuesday night.</a> The committee appears to place more value, in most cases, into who a team has beaten rather than who a team has lost to. This is evidenced by two one loss teams in the top four over unbeaten Power-5 teams.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There was a little movement from last week as only three departed from the rankings (Ole Miss, Texas A&M, and Toledo), four unbeaten teams lost (LSU, Michigan State, TCU, and Memphis), and there are three new faces in the mix (Navy, UNC, and Wisconsin). This weekend looks to be lackluster, and I don't expect a lot of movement in the rankings. However, we should be able to have some questions answered about a few teams. For instance, can Baylor and Houston remain undefeated with their toughest tests to date?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sometimes the craziest Saturdays are the ones where we least expect it. At least there are three ranked teams guaranteed to lose with OU @ Baylor, Alabama @ Mississippi State, and Memphis @ Houston. Twenty four of the teams are in action with ten going on the road. Only Wisconsin is safe this week. Here's hoping that this week brings some excitement.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Since we have discussed most of these teams in previous articles, I will lay out what needs to happen for each team to make the playoffs. First, there are a couple of assumptions made: 1) A two loss team will not make the playoffs under the current circumstances; 2) No conference will have more than one team in the playoff; 3) The lack of a conference championship game is hurting the XII, and will need an undefeated champion to make the playoffs.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>FOUR IN: </b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#1</b> <b><a href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Clemson Tigers</a></b> (9-0): Last Week FSU 23-13. Next up @ Syracuse. This spot is Clemson's to lose. With Syracuse, Wake, and South Carolina left to go, losing doesn't seem possible. Still time for #Clemsoning, but most likely these teams will be #Clemsoned. Clemson will most likely face UNC in the ACC title game, which may turn out to be a decent game, but will be the clear favorite. Win and in.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#2 </b><b><a href="https://www.rollbamaroll.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="text-decoration: underline;">Alabama Crimson Tide</a></b> (8-1): Last Week LSU 30-16. Next up @ #17 Mississippi State. The committee loves what Alabama has done this season, even forgiving the early Ole Miss slip up. Bama will have a tough test this week going to Starkville to face CLANGA CLANGA Missis-CLANGA-sippi State CLANGA Bull-CLANGA-dogs CLANGA and Dak CLANGA CLANGA Prescott CLANGA. Alabama then has a cupcake before the Iron Bowl against rival Auburn. Win and the Tide will face one loss Florida in the SEC title game. Alabama will not be jumped if it wins out.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#3</b> <b><a href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ohio State Buckeyes</a> </b>(8-0): Last Week Minnesota 28-14. Next up @ Illinois. Ohio State survived the 1-week suspension of newly starting QB J.T. Barrett by beating Minnesota. Barrett will be back this week to face Illinois. He will need the tune up game before facing Michigan State and Michigan to close out the regular season. If Ohio State can survive the Michigan schools, it will then most likely face Iowa in the B1G title game. Definitely a tough stretch, but will allow OSU to not get jumped by winning out.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#4</b> <b><a href="https://www.onefootdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Notre Dame Fighting Irish</a></b> (7-1): Last Week @ Pitt 42-30. Next up Wake Forest. The big game remains at the end of the regular season at #7 Stanford. But ND must get past Wake Forest and Boston College to set up the elimination game with Stanford. I think that Notre Dame will need some help down the stretch to solidify its playoff spot. An undefeated Big XII champion would jump ND in my opinion. ND should be rooting for chaos in the Big XII.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>IN THE HUNT:</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">#5 <b><a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Iowa Hawkeyes</a></b> (9-0): Last Week @ Indiana 35-17. Next up Minnesota. <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YDDxeAPY6hLE5SoeEKpu8XSsLl4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4261909/giphy.0.gif">
</figure>
</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">At least in my dreams.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#6 </b><b><a href="https://www.ourdailybears.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="text-decoration: underline;">Baylor Bears</a></b> (8-0): Last Week @ KSU 31-24. Next up #12 Oklahoma. Jarrett Stidham proved that he is more than capable in running the Bear's offense. But can Baylor stop the run? Should be a crazy shootout. Baylor will then have OK State, TCU, and Texas to go. Win out, and it will be near impossible to leave an undefeated Power-5 conference champion out of the playoffs. Winning out will be tough on the road in Stillwater and Fort Worth.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#7 </b><b><a href="https://www.ruleoftree.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Stanford Cardinal</a></b> (8-1): Last Week @ Colorado 42-10. Next up Oregon. Stanford is a 10 point favorite over the Ducks. After that, the Trees have Cal then #4 Notre Dame. The remaining schedule will be tough, but could be enough to prove to the committee it belongs. Stanford needs either the Big XII or the B1G champion to have a loss, or it could see itself as the first team left out.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#8 </b><b><a href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">O</a></b><b><a href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">klahoma State Cowboys</a></b> (9-0): Last Week TCU 49-29. Next up @ Iowa State. This has shades of 2011 written all over it. No, not second half collapses, but an undefeated Oklahoma State heading to Ames, Iowa with the National Championship implications. Oklahoma State lost that game in overtime. Can Iowa State play the spoiler yet again? (Probably not). After this trap road game, the Cowboys head back to Stillwater to face Baylor then OU in the annual Bedlam game. Oklahoma State already made quite an impression on the committee by moving up 6 spots in the playoff rankings after beating TCU last weekend. I think they will be able to continue the climb and could jump a one loss ND or Stanford if it wins out.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b><i>Just think if this was an 8 team playoff? Sounds way more fun.</i></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#9 </b><b><a href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">LSU Tigers</a></b> (7-1): Last Week @ BAMA 16-30. Next up Arkansas. The <a href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">LSU Tigers</a> were shut down last week in Tuscaloosa, and have surging Arkansas up next. The <a href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tigers</a> obviously need to bounce back but have a brutal up coming schedule with Ole Miss and Texas A&M, well more so with Ole Miss. LSU has a lot of ground to make up and needs Alabama to lose again so it can win the SEC West. LSU could easily win out and miss on the playoffs as a 1 loss SEC West team.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#10</b> <b><a href="https://www.blocku.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="text-decoration: underline;">Utah Utes</a> </b>(8-1): Last Week @ Washington 34-23. Next up @ Arizona. Vegas actually has Utah as a favorite again. Utah can make noise in the playoff as it has #19 UCLA left to play this regular season. If it wins Pac12 South, it would most likely play #7 Stanford in the conference championship game. Imagine if Stanford beats Notre Dame and then a one loss Utah beats Stanford. Throw in no undefeated Big XII, and we would learn a lot about which conference the Committee dislikes the most; Pac 12 or Big XII. Utah can most certainly play its way into the playoff but needs some outside help.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#11 </b><b><a href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Florida Gators</a></b> (8-1): Last Week Vanderbilt 9-7. Next up @ South Carolina. Florida survived a scare from the scrappy Vanderbilt defense (lifeless offense) last weekend. By doing so, Florida locked up the SEC East and will face the SEC West Champion in Atlanta. Florida still has #16 FSU at the end of the season (take notes Texas and Texas A&M) to boost its position. If Florida can beat FSU and most likely Alabama to close out the season, it could potentially jump into the Playoff spots.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#12 </b><b><a href="https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="text-decoration: underline;">Oklahoma Sooners</a> </b>(8-1): Last Week ISU 52-16. Next up @ #6 Baylor. If the committee does have bias towards the all offense Big XII, then OU may be its only hope for a one loss team to make it in. OU has to do enough to overcome an embarrassing loss to Texas early in October. Beating Baylor and OSU on the road, and knocking off TCU at home should go a long way in making up ground. A loss to the B1G champion would help too. OU needs a lot of help, but will significantly rise by winning out.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#13 </b><b><a href="https://www.theonlycolors.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Michigan State Spartans</a></b> (8-1): Last Week @ Nebraska 38-39. Next up Maryland. Michigan State still has to play Ohio State, but there is a way for Sparty to win the B1G and set itself up with two wins of teams currently higher ranked. This would go a long way for Sparty; however, that loss to Nebraska may prove to be too much for Michigan State.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#14 </b><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/">Michigan Wolverines</a> </b>(7-2): Last Week Rutgers 49-16. Next up @ Indiana. Not going to happen <a href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Wolverines</a>, but you can play the spoiler and ruin Ohio State's playoff hopes.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#15 </b><b><a href="https://www.frogsowar.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="text-decoration: underline;">TCU Horned Frogs</a></b> (8-1): Last Week @ Oklahoma State 29-49. Next up Kansas. The Frogs dropped 7 spots after the loss to Oklahoma State. Beating Kansas will not help them much in the committee's eyes. The <a href="https://www.frogsowar.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Horned Frogs</a> still have OU and Baylor to help its case, but may be too little too late. TCU would need some help in the B1G and the Pac12 to help pave the way for a 1 loss Big XII team to make it from this far back.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#16</b> <b><a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Florida State Seminoles</a> </b>(7-2): Last Week @ Clemson 13-23. Next up NC STATE.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U3DWat8DzmCDok8ic_eX8WhgsHI=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4264017/NCStateFan_Celebrates_original.0.gif">
</figure>
</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Oh wait, it's not at NCSTATE, no matter; carry on shirtless wolfpack man.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#17 </b><b><a href="https://www.forwhomthecowbelltolls.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Mississippi State Bulldogs</a> </b>(7-2) Last Week @ Mizzou 31-13. Next up #2 Alabama.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Smqm-ze6R1hJxU0-VSsd6Ck5GeE=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4264097/miss-state-cowbell.0.gif">
</figure>
</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#18 </b><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.insidenu.com/">Northwestern Wildcats</a> </b>(7-2) Last Week Penn State 23-21. Next up Purdue. Northwestern students are currently <a target="_blank" href="http://collegespun.com/big-ten/northwestern-big-ten/photos-northwestern-students-disrupt-protest-at-wildcats-groundbreaking-ceremony-for-new-athletic-facility">protesting a ground breaking ceremony for the athletic department.</a>.. <a href="https://www.insidenu.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Wildcats</a> are a non-factor, as they already lost to Iowa.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#19 </b><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bruinsnation.com/">UCLA Bruins</a> </b>(7-2) Last Week Oregon State 41-0. Next up Washington State. UCLA wont make the playoffs this year, but can ruin Utah's hope of getting in.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#20 Navy* Midshipmen</b> (7-1) Last Week @ Memphis 45-20. Next up SMU. Navy is not making the playoffs, but could be playing in a New Year's six bowl. That's pretty cool, and is why you should join a conference. Cough cough BYU cough.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b></b><b>#21 </b><b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/memphis-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Memphis Tigers</a></b> (8-1): Last Week Navy 20-45. Next up @ #24 Houston. Memphis's perfect season was sunk by Navy. Memphis may have been the only hope to get in. The AAC dream can live on through Houston, but most likely will have to wait till next year.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">#<b>22</b> <b>Temple Owl</b>s (8-1): Last Week @ SMU 60-40. Next up @ South Florida.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#23 </b><b>North Carolina Tarheels</b> (8-1): Last Week Duke 66-31. Next up Miami. Welcome to the rankings UNC. UNC has managed to climb back into the rankings after a horribly embarrassing loss to South Carolina to begin the season. UNC has got to win the ACC by beating an undefeated Clemson team to even sniff the playoffs. I don't think that will be enough to vault them into the discussion.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#24 </b><b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/houston-cougars" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Cougars</a></b> (9-0): Last Week Cincinnati 33-30. Next up #21 Memphis. This is going to be a highly entertaining game. I can't wait. Houston is the last non-power 5 team to remain unbeaten; but it hasn't played anyone yet. If Houston can run the table by beating Memphis and Temple (conference championship game), then it should skyrocket up this list. The odds of actually making the playoffs are fairly small with so many good power 5 teams currently a head of the Cougs.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b></b><b>#25 <a href="https://www.buckys5thquarter.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Wisconsin Badgers</a> </b>(8-2) Last Week @ Maryland 31-24. Next up BYE. Wisconsin's chances in GIF form:</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> <figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/u3wP11BWfcXkGbm1is1UPvslbao=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/4264075/18vhz6ftz8r0sgif.0.gif">
</figure>
</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>RIP:</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Texas A&M, Ole Miss, Toledo...</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
https://www.goodbullhunting.com/2015/11/13/9713694/playoffs-week-10-rankingswhoopy2015-11-05T10:41:32-06:002015-11-05T10:41:32-06:00College Football Playoffs Update
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Bk-XlVKUTlqehNQ6QViiTuM-GFQ=/148x0:1768x1080/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47587767/joker_-_playoff_cards.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><a href='https://twitter.com/whoopy07'>Whoopy</a></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Committee has spoken, and it is sending a message. <br>
<br>Let's not blow this out of proportion, most of these teams are still going to lose a game somewhere.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.collegefootballplayoff.com/view-rankings">The College Football Playoff Committee has spoken.</a> The committee released its playoff rankings, and surprised fans with its unconventional methods. Some fans are outraged that one-loss teams are ahead of undefeated power-five schools. In addition, everyone outside of Tuscaloosa is rolling their eyes over two SEC schools making the top four. Big XII fans are indignant over another slight from the committee by having three undefeated teams all left out for poor Strength of Schedule. The media releases are brilliant and I am all for the committee's early reveal as it generates discussion, creates controversy, and provides the internet with more fuel for incredibly hot taeks. The instant the rankings were released, many began arguments as to why team X should be in over team Y. However, the Playoff Committee does not live by your rules, and college football is stuck playing the committee's game. The committee is an agent of chaos.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">All 25 of the potential playoff teams are in action this week. Expect some pandemonium as this is College Football in November. This is fun.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>PLAYOFF BOUND:</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#1</b> <b><a href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Clemson Tigers</a></b> (8-0): Last Week @NC State 56-41. Clemson once again avoided Clemsoning by pulling away on 21 points in the third quarter. The Tigers have done enough so far this season to earn the top spot. There is not a lot of controversy with this selection. The committee most likely used Clemson's <a target="_blank" href="https://www.teamrankings.com/college-football/ranking/schedule-strength-by-other" style="background-color: #ffffff;">Strength of Schedule</a> and a win over Notre Dame, who the committee really likes, to award Clemson the top spot. Clemson will face Florida State at home this week. A win will solidify Clemson as a playoff team.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#2 </b><b><a href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">LSU Tigers</a></b> (7-0): Last Week BYE. The committee awarded LSU with the # 2 playoff spot based on wins over Mississippi State and Florida, as well as having one of the best offensive players in the nation in <span>Leonard Fournette</span>. LSU will face Alabama this weekend in Tuscaloosa, in what will be a true playoff elimination game. LSU can still climb back into a spot with a loss, but a lot would need to happen to unseat Alabama. A win completely eliminates Alabama, in my opinion. Although, winning could prove to be difficult as LSU is a 6.5 point underdog. This game is going to be good. LSU has a tough November with Ole Miss and Texas A&M looming. The Tigers are not going to be jumped if they continue to win.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#3</b> <b><a href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Ohio State Buckeyes</a> </b>(8-0): Last Week BYE. Ohio State may have been off last week, but found a way to lose the bye week. Newly starting QB <span>J.T. Barrett</span> was <a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2015/10/31/9649980/jt-barrett-arrested-ohio-state-quarterback" target="_blank">arrested for OVI </a>and promptly suspended one game. This news did not dissuade the committee from giving the third playoff spot to the Buckeyes. This week, Ohio State faces Minnesota at home. Let's see if the Gophers figure out their <a style="background-color: #ffffff;" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2015/10/31/9652738/michigan-minnesota-clock-management-loss" target="_blank">clock management skills from last week.</a> The defending National Champions are a for sure playoff team with J.T. Barrett at QB, and he returns next week. Ohio State has Michigan State and Michigan remaining on the schedule; and a potential showdown with undefeated Iowa, if both make the B1G Championship.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#4</b> <b><a style="text-decoration: underline;" href="https://www.rollbamaroll.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Alabama Crimson Tide</a></b> (7-1): Last Week BYE. After an impressive bye weekend, the Committee set the internet ablaze by giving one-loss Alabama the 4th playoff spot. The committee leaned heavy on Alabama's strength of schedule (see link above). I am not a fan of this selection as I think two teams from the same conference making the playoffs is a pipe dream by conference homers. Also, I believe that the committee will reward undefeated teams at the end of the season. Alabama has a chance to make believers out of the nation this upcoming week against LSU. A Tide victory would throw the SEC West into a three way tie; <a target="_blank" href="http://www.secsports.com/article/11145479/sec-divisional-tie-breaker" style="background-color: #ffffff;">which would put Ole Miss into first place</a>, for the time being. (Ole Miss has not lost to a SEC West foe yet). I think that is important, because winning your conference will be key in gaining a playoff spot from the Committee. Alabama is a good team, and can end the year with a spot, but I think a few things need to happen outside of its control to get there.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>THE FIRST TWO OUT:</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#5</b> <b><a href="https://www.onefootdown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Notre Dame Fighting Irish</a></b> (6-1): Last Week @ Temple 24-20. Gameday at Temple was a great choice, and a great game (ESPN still would not have been wrong to have gone to Pullman, either). The Committee appears to like Notre Dame's SOS over other undefeated teams. The Irish have weathered early injuries, and are a two point conversion and an overtime away from being undefeated. Notre Dame still has Stanford to close out the season in what will most likely be a playoff elimination game from which the loser will not recover. Still, I am surprised that Notre Dame is this high in the initial rankings. Next up is Pitt on the road.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#6 </b><b><a style="text-decoration: underline;" href="https://www.ourdailybears.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Baylor Bears</a></b> (7-0): Last Week BYE. Freshman QB Jarrett Stidham will have his first collegiate start on the road in what is supposed to be a rainy Manhattan, Kansas to face Kansas State. The Wildcats have not been good lately. This should be a nice tune up game for Baylor's freshman QB before facing OSU, OU, and TCU in the following weeks. Baylor was jumped by Alabama and Notre Dame because of its SOS, and in part due to the season-ending injury to starting QB Seth Russell. Baylor has beaten only one team with a winning record (Texas Tech). Although Baylor has looked good against the weaker competition, and will have the meat of the Big XII coming up to prove itself to the committee. Baylor can most certainly still play its way in. A lot is riding on the arm of Jarrett Stidham.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>IN THE HUNT:</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#7 <a href="https://www.theonlycolors.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Michigan State Spartans</a></b> (8-0): Last Week BYE. Michigan State also gets slighted for their lack of a difficult schedule. The early win over Oregon is not as impressive as once thought. In addition, Michigan State hasn't blown anyone out and needed a puntastrophe from Michigan to remain unbeaten. The Spartans do have Ohio State remaining on the schedule. Wining that game and then the B1G Championship would help boost Michigan State up the rankings. Sparty also plays the bottom dwellers of the B1G, and the committee will be looking at how Michigan State handles the game control and margin of victory. Michigan State is only a 5.5 point favorite on the road against Nebraska this upcoming weekend.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#8 </b><b><a style="text-decoration: underline;" href="https://www.frogsowar.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">TCU Horned Frogs</a></b> (8-0): Last Week WVU 40-10. TCU is another Big XII that is hurt by its strength of schedule. I also think TCU was hurt by a perceived lack of defense as the committee is looking for "complete teams". That being said, <span>Trevone Boykin</span> has been very good for the Horned Frogs. Oklahoma State is up next for the Frogs in what is the first of six games which will not only decide the Big XII, but determine if the conference will get its first playoff team. TCU is in good position with Baylor at home, but must first beat OSU and OU on the road. TCU has the potential to run the table and find itself in the playoffs. It also has the potential to fall into chaos as the Big XII eats itself and is left entirely out of the playoffs. Either story line will be entertaining to watch.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#9 <a href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Iowa Hawkeyes</a></b> (8-0): Last Week Maryland 31-15. Iowa is still undefeated. I think the Committee is unsure what to do with the Hawkeyes and is taking a wait and see approach. The Committee will most likely have to wait till the B1G Championship game to determine Iowa's fate as Iowa's next four opponents have 3 conference wins combined. Anything can happen. Iowa has the opportunity to quietly amass wins while those around them face elimination games to climb in this ranking. Indiana is up next and Iowa is a touchdown favorite.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#10</b> <b><a href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Florida Gators</a></b> (7-1): Last Week Georgia 27-3. The Gators are an interesting team and boast a better win than Alabama and Notre Dame with their win over Ole Miss. Florida is also in control of the SEC East and is headed for a rematch/showdown with the SEC West Winner in the championship game. This could be enough to send Florida into the discussion for top four. Vanderbilt is up next and Florida is a three touchdown favorite over the 'Dores. After that, Florida has South Carolina and UAF, before its rivalry game with Florida State. The Gators are in a good spot and I expect them to climb in these rankings.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#11</b> <b><a href="https://www.ruleoftree.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Stanford Cardinal</a></b> (7-1): Last Week Washington State 30-28. Stanford was inches away from its second loss as Washington State's FG Kicker, <span>Erik Powell</span>, missed wide right as time expired late Saturday night. Stanford, and possibly the Pac 12 were that close to being eliminated from the playoff discussion. Stanford goes on the road again this week to face Colorado as a 16 point favorite. If Stanford can keep winning, the game against Notre Dame at the end of the season will loom large for both programs. Stanford obviously needs the undefeated teams to lose to move up as a one loss team. Right now, Stanford and the Pac 12 are on the outside looking in.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#12 </b><b><a href="https://www.blocku.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="text-decoration: underline;">Utah Utes</a> </b>(7-1): Last Week Oregon State 27-12. Utah still only has one loss, but was an underdog to a three loss USC team on the road. This week, Utah is a one point underdog to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.uwdawgpound.com/">Washington Huskies</a> on the road. Vegas is not impressed with Utah. Neither is the committee. Utah will need "style points" these next few weeks to impress the committee. Utah's remaining schedule could end up hurting the Utes, as UCLA is the only playoff ranked team left to play. The Utes could make a statement if it beats Stanford in the Pac 12 Championship game, but may be too little too late.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#13 </b><b><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/memphis-tigers" class="sbn-auto-link">Memphis Tigers</a></b> (8-0): Last Week Tulane 41-13. Memphis is the highest ranked non-power five school, and earned the spot with a win over Ole Miss. Memphis is a fun team to watch. This week, Memphis faces Navy and is a 7.5 point favorite over the Midshipmen. The following week, Memphis faces undefeated Houston. Memphis is going to need some help to get to the playoffs. One thing that would help is if Ole Miss won the SEC by knocking out LSU and Florida from the playoff. This would most likely leave the SEC out of the playoffs. Memphis would get a huge boost for having scoreboard over the SEC champion. Add that to a few upsets of undefeated teams, and Memphis would have a decent shot at moving into the top four. Talk about anarchy and upsetting the established order.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#14 <a href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">O</a></b><b><a href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">klahoma State Cowboys</a></b> (8-0): Last Week @ Texas Tech 70-53. Oklahoma State avoided an upset by scoring six touchdowns in the second half against Texas Tech. However, the committee is not impressed. OSU is ranked behind a non-power five school and is a 5.5 point underdog this week to TCU. You should feel bad, Cowboys. Redemption could come this week if Okie State can knock off TCU. With TCU, Baylor, and OU remaining on the schedule, I don't see a way for the Cowboys to remain undefeated. However, I do think that the Cowboys will play spoiler and ruin one of the above's playoff hopes.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#15 <a href="https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/" class="sbn-auto-link" style="text-decoration: underline;">Oklahoma Sooners</a> </b>(6-1): Last Week @ Kansas 62-7. Oklahoma completed its scrimmage against hapless Kansas this past week and faces Iowa State at home. Don't sleep on ISU, Sooners. ISU just shut out the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barkingcarnival.com/">Texas Longhorns</a> 24-0. Those Longhorns beat the Sooners 24-17 (an embarrassing loss). Transitive Property in College Football is science and should be taken as law. In all seriousness, that loss to Texas is keeping the committee from taking OU seriously. OU is playing better and has a chance to silence the critics by beating TCU, Baylor, and OSU. Just think of the transitive property claims that will arise out of Austin if that happens!</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#16</b> <b><a href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Florida State Seminoles</a> </b>(6-1): Last Week Syracuse 45-21. Without star running back <span>Dalvin Cook</span> and starting QB Everett Golson the Seminoles looked the best it has all season under QB Sean Maguire. Jimbo Fisher <a target="_blank" href="http://espn.go.com/blog/acc/post/_/id/87803/florida-state-should-stick-with-sean-maguires-hot-hand-against-clemson">has not named a starter</a> yet for the looming Clemson game this weekend. Florida State is in an interesting position and can play the spoiler to Clemson and Florida. If it does, it can find itself in the playoff conversation.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>LONG SHOTS, AT BEST:</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I have an underlying bias that a two loss team will not make the playoffs barring the craziest of Novembers. For the time being, a two loss team will act as nothing more than potential spoilers. This week, the two loss teams all play very winnable games against non-playoff contending teams.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#17 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.maizenbrew.com/">Michigan Wolverines</a> </b>(6-2): Last Week @ Minnesota 29-26. Upcoming: Rutgers.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#18 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.redcuprebellion.com/">Ole Miss Rebels</a> </b>(7-2) Last Week @ Auburn 27-19. Upcoming: Arkansas. Ole Miss is probably the most interesting two loss team as it still controls its destiny in the SEC West. Beating LSU looks to be a tall order, but that game is in Oxford. It would be interesting to see what the committee would do with a two loss SEC Champion with a one loss LSU/Alabama. Would the committee take a non conference winner?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#19 Texas A&M Aggies </b>(6-2) Last Week South Carolina 35-28. Upcoming: Auburn.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#20 Mississippi State Bulldogs </b>(6-2) Last Week BYE. Upcoming: Missouri.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#21 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.insidenu.com/">Northwestern Wildcats</a> </b>(6-2) Last Week BYE. Upcoming: Penn State.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">#<b>22</b> <b>Temple Owl</b>s (7-1): Last Week Notre Dame 20-24. Temple lost, but impressed the committee enough to be the only one loss non-P5 school to be ranked in its initial rankings. Temple is a good team. Temple will get back on track this week on the road against SMU.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#23 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bruinsnation.com/">UCLA Bruins</a> </b>(6-2) Last Week @ Colorado 35-31. Upcoming: Oregon State.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#24 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets" class="sbn-auto-link">Toledo Rockets</a></b> (7-1): Last Week NIU 32-37. The rankings came out on Tuesday, and Holy Toledo, the Rockets' made the list! A couple of hours later and NIU ruined the Rockets hopes and dreams. Congratulations Toledo, you are the first playoff victim.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#25 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/houston-cougars" class="sbn-auto-link">Houston Cougars</a></b> (8-0): Last Week Vanderbilt 34-0. Upcoming: Cincinnati. I have enjoyed Houston this year under first year head coach Tom Herman. However, the Cougs are knocked so much lower than its counterparts for their strength of schedule. Houston does have a chance to prove itself against Memphis.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>NR North Carolina Tarheels</b> (7-1): Last Week @ Pitt 26-19. Upcoming Duke. My prediction is that North Carolina will be ranked next week by the committee if it beats Duke this week. By doing so, it will be in sole possession of the ACC Coastal Division.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>RECENTLY REMOVED:</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Duke and Pitt both lost this past weekend; and were promptly left off the initial playoff rankings. Duke may have been ranked had it not been for the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2015/11/1/9652810/miami-duke-ending-play-">most controversial play of 2015</a>. Toledo also joins this list.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Overall, my only complaint with the rankings is that Alabama is too high in the initial rankings. At the end of the season, an undefeated team will get in over a one loss team. However, this week has the potential to shake up the established order as all playoff contending teams are in action; with half of the teams on the road. Also, there are six teams battling other teams in the playoff rankings. These playoff teams, they'll eat each other. Enjoy.</p>
https://www.goodbullhunting.com/2015/11/5/9658380/college-football-playoff-rankings-released-sec-2015-top-25whoopy2015-10-29T09:45:29-05:002015-10-29T09:45:29-05:00Playoff Quest Continues
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yQvCYL8qZJ7GD8TuBfev5Uj3HS8=/0x0:4966x3311/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47536169/GettyImages-493147062.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Chris Graythen/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Who's still in? Who crashed and burned?
<br>Pack only the essentials for this trip. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Going on road trips is an inevitable event for every college football team, every season. Sometimes, going on the road presents no trouble at all. Other times, it can present minor setbacks, and sometimes, the car explodes as it careens off a thousand-foot cliff. Such is life. Last week, twelve playoff contending teams went on the road. Four of those lost (FSU, Utah, Texas A&M and Cal). This week, there are seven road games. Who will falter?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<h4><b>Pick Em Up:</b></h4>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The undefeated list of power 5 teams has shrunk to 8 teams. The trip is going so well that you have no worries in picking up hitchhikers on your bandwagon. Si!</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#1</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/">Ohio State Buckeyes</a> </b>(8-0): Last Week @ Rutgers - 49-7. Urban Meyer has found his Quarterback in <span>J.T. Barrett</span>, or maybe the Buckeyes simply got their offense going against slump-buster Rutgers. Rutgers scored with :13 seconds left to prevent the shutout and Ohio State was dominant for this first time this season. Ohio State has solidified their AP #1 ranking for now. The Buckeyes have Minnesota at home next week (best wishes to <a href="http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/13990629/jerry-kill-retires-minnesota-golden-gophers-football-coach" target="_blank">recently retired Coach Jerry Kill</a>.) 9-0 is the most likely outcome, but I expect Minnesota to come out and play tough.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#2 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ourdailybears.com/">Baylor Bears</a></b> (7-0): Last Week ISU - 45-27. The Bears led 35-7 at halftime of a rainy game, which did not appear to slow the Bears down until the second half. However, QB <span>Seth Russell</span> is <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2015/10/24/9608870/baylor-qb-seth-russell-broke-a-bone-in-his-neck" target="_blank">out for the rest of the season</a> from an injury suffered in last week's game in the fourth quarter. You might ask what Seth was doing in the game so late, but the Bears' offense sputtered, which allowed Iowa State to make the game respectable. I don't think this completely derails Baylor's Playoff hopes, but it definitely puts a damper on it. Seth Russell had complete control of this offense. Art Briles will plug and play freshman five star QB Jarrett Stidham on the road against Kansas State this week, and for the rest of the season. Expect a heavy dose of <span>Shock Linwood</span> this week.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#3</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/">Clemson Tigers</a></b> (6-0): Last Week @ Miami - 58-0. Clemson devastated the Hurricanes, holding them to zero points, 146 yards of offense, and six first downs. Six! This led to the firing of Miami Coach Al Golden. Will someone think of the Airplane ad banner pilots?!?! How are they supposed to make a living now, Clemson? Clemson silenced a lot of critics, and showed that it is a contender. There is still time for some "Clemsoning", as Clemson goes on the road to NC State. This could be a trap game if Clemson is looking ahead to the matchup against FSU the following weekend.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#4</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com/">LSU Tigers</a></b> (7-0): Last Week WKU - 48-20. QB Brandon Harris stole the spotlight in a flooded Tiger Stadium by throwing for 289 yards and three touchdowns. <span>Leonard Fournette</span> only had 150 yards rushing and only one rushing touchdown. LSU is on a bye this week, which is the deep breath before the plunge on the road at Alabama.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#5</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.frogsowar.com/">TCU Horned Frogs</a></b> (7-0): Last Week BYE. This Thursday, TCU faces West Virginia in Fort Worth. West Virginia is currently 0-3 in the Big 12, and should move to 0-4. Thursday night college football games are known to get weird. If any coach knows how to get weird, it's coach Dana Holgorsen. Let's get weird in Funky Town.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#6 </b><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.theonlycolors.com/">Michigan State Spartans</a></b> (8-0): Last Week Indiana - 52-26. This score is misleading as Michigan State scored three touchdowns in the final 4:26 of the fourth quarter. At the end of the third quarter, this was a 28-26 game in favor of Sparty. Michigan State is starting to look like 2013 Auburn, in that it continues to find a way to win late. This week, Sparty is on a BYE.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#10 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/">Iowa Hawkeyes</a></b> (7-0): Last Week BYE. Iowa has Maryland at home next week, and nothing should derail Iowa's trip to the B1G Championship Game. Iowa's remaining schedule is currently 2-15 in the Big 10, and 14-23 overall. Just to be clear, Iowa has one more conference win (3) by itself than the remaining 5 Big 10 teams do combined (2). Iowa does have some skins on the wall as it has beaten Wisconsin, Pitt, and Northwestern so far this season.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#12 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/">Oklahoma State Cowboys</a></b> (7-0): Last Week Kansas 58-10.<i> (Please don't drink and drive. Not once, not ever. Oklahoma State is still reeling from the <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/10/24/us/oklahoma-car-into-crowd/" target="_blank">homecoming crash which left four dead</a> and many more injured. Such a senseless tragedy that is so easily avoided.) </i> OSU won easily against helpless Kansas. The Cowboys will go to Lubbock to face the defenseless <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.vivathematadors.com/">Texas Tech Red Raiders</a>. This is probably the best odds for a team in this category to take a loss, as the Raiders can score points. Although it's probably just a fool's hope of an upset.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<h4><br></h4>
<h4>
<b>Totally Redeem Yourself</b><b>:</b>
</h4>
<p><br>These are the one-loss teams that still control their destiny, but need the above one-loss teams to crash and burn. Alabama, Stanford, Notre Dame, and Florida probably have the best chance, OU has an embarrassing loss against Texas, but can beat BU, TCU, and OSU to overcome that. The rest have too much to overcome.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#7</b><b> <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rollbamaroll.com/">Alabama Crimson Tide</a></b> (7-1): Last Week Tennessee - 19-14. This was a hard fought rivalry game. The Tide scored the go ahead touchdown with 2:24 remaining in the fourth quarter. The Tide defense took over and stuffed Tennessee on two straight sacks and a fumble recovery to seal the victory. Tennessee did miss three field goals. Sorry Vols, the 2011 Texas A&M team feels your pain. Alabama is on a bye and will rest up to face Leonard Fournette and the LSU Tigers at home. I expect that game to be another 9-6 type game.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#8 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ruleoftree.com/">Stanford Cardinal</a></b> (6-1): Last Week Washington - 31-14. Stanford was in control of this one throughout the game. Stanford also held the ball for 40 minutes of play and was seen lining up in the power I formation throughout the night. Stanford is a physical team and is getting stronger each week. This week, the Cardinals go to Pullman to face the Mike Leach- led Cougars' air raid attack. Game day snubbed Pullman for Temple. Poor choice, if for no other reason than that we are deprived of Mike Leach interviews.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#9 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.onefootdown.com/">Notre Dame Fighting Irish</a></b> (6-1): Last Week BYE. Notre Dame is on GameDay this week to face the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/temple-owls">Temple Owls</a> in Philadelphia. The Irish are currently 10 point favorites; however, Temple is currently 3-0 as an underdog against the spread. Notre Dame will have its hands full this week but should remain in the playoff hunt this week. Expect a defensive showdown.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#11 </b><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/">Florida Gators</a></b> (6-1): Last Week BYE. The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida%E2%80%93Georgia_football_rivalry" target="_blank">world's largest cocktail party</a> is underway in Jacksonville this week. Both teams are without key starters with RB Nick Chubb (injury) and QB Will Grier (suspension). The Bulldogs still have a top notch passing defense, but how will that fair against Florida's rushing attack? Florida is currently in the driver's seat to win the SEC East, and I think they get it done this weekend.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#13 </b><b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blocku.com/">Utah Utes</a> </b>(6-1): Last Week @ USC - 42-24. Vegas pulled one over on the betting public this weekend. USC crushed the hopes and dreams of Utah's playoff chances. Utah does appear to be in control of the Pac-12 South division and is still in this. Utah should get back on tract at home against Oregon State. However, I believe Stanford is the Pac-12's best hope in having a playoff team.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#14 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/">Oklahoma Sooners</a> </b>(6-1): Last Week Texas Tech - 63-27. Oklahoma dismantled Tech by forcing 4 turnovers and scoring 21 unanswered points to close out the game. OU has looked very dominant the past two weeks, but that loss against Texas is keeping the Sooners from rising very far in the polls. OU goes on the road to Lawrence for a <strike>scrimmage </strike> game against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rockchalktalk.com/">Kansas Jayhawks</a>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#17</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/">Florida State Seminoles</a> </b>(6-1): Last Week @ Georgia Tech - 22-16. College Football fans were rewarded with another <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2015/10/24/9609532/florida-state-georgia-tech-kick-six-jimbo-fisher-roberto-aguayo" target="_blank">game winning kick-6</a>. Georgia Tech was reeling from a five game losing streak and had no business hanging with FSU. Then College Football happened. It was glorious. Florida State will have a tune up game against Syracuse before facing Clemson the following week.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#22 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com/">Duke Blue Devils</a></b> (6-1): Last Week @ VT - 4OT 45-43. The Hokies failed to convert the 2 point conversion in the fourth overtime, but the Blue Devils did. Duke's thin playoff hopes remain for the time being. Duke has Miami this week at home, and Vegas currently has the line as a pick em. Miami should be more talented, but will it show up to play for <a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/college/acc/university-of-miami/article41637717.html" target="_blank">interim head coach Larry Scott</a>?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/college/acc/university-of-miami/article41637717.html" target="_blank"> </a>#<b>23 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cardiachill.com/">Pittsburgh Panthers</a> </b>(6-1): Last Week @ Syracuse - 23-20. Pitt looked to be on its way out of the playoff discussion. However, <span>Chris Blewitt</span> did not blow it [sees self out] and kicked the game winner as time expired. Thankfully, Pitt plays Coastal Division foe and fellow one loss team UNC at home this Thrusday night. One team will have to lose and be removed forever from the 2015 playoff discussion. Still, Coach Pat Narduzzi has done an amazing job in year one at Pitt.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>NR North Carolina Tarheels</b> (6-1): Last Week UVA 26-13. UNC goes on the road to Pitt this Thursday as a 3 point favorite. Win, and the Tarheels should move into the rankings for a showdown against ACC Coastal foe Duke. Raise your hand if you had this Thursday night circled as a game with potential playoff implications? No one? In the end, this game probably will be nothing more than a weird Thursday Night game. Enjoy.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<h4><br></h4>
<h4>
<b>So, You're Telling Me There's A Chance</b><b>:</b>
</h4>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b> </b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#16 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/memphis-tigers">Memphis Tigers</a></b> (7-0): Last Week @ Tulsa 66-42. Road games are tough, but Memphis handled Tulsa in the second half in what was an AACtion Offensive showdown. Memphis gets hapless Tulane this weekend at home. Games against Houston and Temple loom in the near future.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#18 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/houston-cougars">Houston Cougars</a></b> (7-0): Last Week @ UCF 59-10. Houston rolled over struggling UCF, which led to coach <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2015/10/25/9082679/george-oleary-ucf-coach-resigns" target="_blank">George O'Leary stepping down as coach.</a><b> </b>This week, the Cougars face SEC team Vanderbilt at home. Vandy is coming off its first SEC win since James Franklin left for Penn State. Houston is an 11 point favorite and should handle the 'Dores with ease. Houston has not played a difficult schedule to date, so it will be interesting to watch how they do against the Vandy defense.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#20 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a></b> (7-0): Last Week @ UMass 51-35. UMass led Toledo 28-10 at halftime, but gave up 38 unanswered points in the second half. Toledo faces NIU at home this week in what should be a tough MAC West showdown. After that, the Rockets have the best teams in the MAC left to go. Should be very difficult to stay undefeated.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>#21 Temple Owl</b>s (7-0): Last Week @ ECU 24-14. Temple pulled away late with 14 points in the fourth quarter in what was a defensive showdown. This week, <a href="http://espn.go.com/blog/ncfnation/post/_/id/118966/espns-gameday-headed-to-philadelphia" target="_blank">College Game Day is coming to your Citay, Philly</a>. The setting will be in front of Independence Hall and will give Lee Corso another opportunity to dress like a Revolutionary Forefather. I just hope there are live owls involved. The Irish are 10 point favorites however. If Temple can pull off the upset at home, then they would become a serious contender to make the playoffs. Temple would of course need to beat Memphis, and then Houston or Memphis again in the AAC title game.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<h4><br></h4>
<h4><span>That John Denver is Full of Shit:</span></h4>
<p> </p>
<p>Don't believe the hype. Michigan, Ole Miss, UCLA, and Mississippi State are the only two loss teams currently ranked, and deserve to be mentioned; however, I do not see a 2 loss team making the playoffs at this point in the season. Crazy things can and most likely will happen; but don't hold your breath for a two loss team.</p>
<h4><br></h4>
<h4><span>OUR PETS' HEADS ARE FALLING OFF:</span></h4>
<p> </p>
<p>Last week, Texas A&M, and Cal suffered their second loss and fell from the AP polls. There are still enough games to climb back in the polls, but as written above, a two loss team will not make the playoffs this year.</p>
<p> </p>
<h4><b>Still Way-Too-Early Predictions </b></h4>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">My playoff teams based on the first 8 weeks of college football are:</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">1. LSU</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">2. Clemson</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">3. Baylor</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">4. Ohio State</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sorry Pac-12. Thank you, Georgia Tech.</p>
<div><br></div>
https://www.goodbullhunting.com/2015/10/29/9629094/the-college-football-playoff-quest-continues-roadtripwhoopy2015-10-22T08:46:54-05:002015-10-22T08:46:54-05:00CFB Playoffs: The Quest
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/kL3gzd1SlxeUNwP28HEF1SXVunA=/51x0:548x331/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47479554/Holy-Grail-picture.0.0.jpg" />
<figcaption><a href='https://twitter.com/whoopy07'>whoopy</a></figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Who's got the best shot at getting in? Who doesn't deserve it? What is the meaning of it all?<br>
<br>We want a shrubbery! </p> <p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">The quest to hoist the holy <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football-playoff-national-championship">College Football Playoff National Championship</a> Trophy began with 120+ teams all vying for the sacred relic. Now halfway through the 2015 season, 24 teams remain with a legitimate argument to be one of the four teams to make the College Football Playoffs.<span> </span><span>By season's end, the</span> committee will be able choose wisely the four worthy teams without controversy (right TCU or MSU?). <span> T</span><a href="http://www.collegefootballplayoff.com/about-the-rankings">he committee will release their rankings on November 3rd</a> at 8:30 central time with much rejoicing from the people<span>. </span>In the meantime, let us <strike>consult the</strike> <strike>book of armaments </strike> look at each team’s chances, and make wild weekly predictions<span> on who is in, and who is out.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<h4 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Only the penitent team will pass:</b></h4>
<h4 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><br></h4>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">These are the undefeated Power 5 teams in complete control of their destiny, unless of course there are more than four undefeated teams at the end of the regular season. Win out and the committee will most likely award that team with a trip to the playoffs. Ten teams remain undefeated, which seems high at this time of year (no research done). Who among them will remain undefeated?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#1</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.landgrantholyland.com/">Ohio State Buckeyes</a> </b>(7-0): The reigning CFB Champion is going about this season much like FSU did in 2014, by not winning pretty, but managing to win. Ohio State has also not beaten a single ranked team this season, but do close out against ranked MSU and Michigan. Somehow this is good enough to keep the #1 AP ranking. Well, I didn't vote for them. In spite of the 7-0 record, Urban Meyer is making a change at QB by benching last year's Championship game winner, <span>Cardale Jones</span>, for backup/once starter JT Barrett this weekend against Rutgers.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#2 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ourdailybears.com/">Baylor Bears</a></b> (6-0): Baylor is another top ranked team that has not beaten a ranked team this season; and will not face a ranked team until November 14th, when it plays Oklahoma. Regardless, Baylor has averaged a measly 64 points per game as it has utterly blown its enemies to tiny bits. QB Seth Russell is in control of the offense, and defense doesn't matter. Baylor looks to continue the streak against Iowa State this weekend. Baylor will have to go on the road to Stillwater to face Oklahoma State, and then to Fort Worth to face their <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2015/9/1/9092301/baylor-tcu-rivalry-game-2015">rival/non-rival TCU</a>. It will be a November that will make or break the Bears.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#3 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blocku.com/">Utah Utes</a> </b>(6-0): Possibly the biggest surprise team of 2015. The Utah Utes continue to win close games on the legs of <span>Devontae Booker</span>, who has rushed for 200 yards fewer (783) than <span>Travis Wilson</span> has passing (980). The Utes destroyed Oregon, and have beaten Cal and Michigan to round out a nice resume. This week the Utes go to Los Angeles as 3.5 point underdogs to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.conquestchronicles.com/">USC Trojans</a>. You read that correctly. The number 3 team in the nation is an underdog at 3-3 USC.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#4</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.frogsowar.com/">TCU Horned Frogs</a></b> (7-0): TCU is another top 5 team that has not played a ranked team this season. TCU has played very well at home, including a 50-7 dismantling of the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.barkingcarnival.com/">Texas Longhorns</a>. However, it has been a different story on the road, as TCU struggled with Minnesota, Kansas State, and had a miraculous tip catch for the game winning touchdown on 4th down in Lubbock. In spite of the struggles, the frogs have managed to continue winning. West Virginia is next at home, so don't expect an upset here. The competition in November will greatly increase, thanks to the backloaded Big XII schedules. Well, minus Kansas at home.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#5</b> <b><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.andthevalleyshook.com/">LSU Tigers</a></b> (6-0): I was wrong about the LSU Tigers as I thought they would take a step back this year without consistent QB play and without defensive coordinator John Chavis. <span>Leonard Fournette</span> is the equalizer and does it all and has rushed for 1202 yards half way through the season. Even though he probably will not beat the NCAA rushing <a href="http://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/leaders/rush-yds-player-season.html" target="_blank">record held by Barry Sanders </a>(1988: 2628 yards in 11 games), he is having an incredible year. He is the best offensive player in college football right now. LSU is going to need Fournette in November as the Tigers will face Alabama, Arkansas, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M. The game in Tuscaloosa will be an unstoppable force against an immovable object. LSU has Western Kentucky next so expect Fournette to run for another 200 yards.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#6 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/">Clemson Tigers</a></b> (6-0): Clemson is currently the number 6 ranked team in the nation and is set on erasing the term 'Clemsoning.' A home win over then number 6 Notre Dame is a quality win that the committee will notice. Florida State is the only remaining ranked team on the schedule; but plays 4 of the remaining 6 games on the road. Are we ready for Clemson to fall to a Spurrierless South Carolina? Clemson still controls its own destiny and just needs to keep winning. Clemson heads to Coral Gables to face Miami, in what will most likely be another nail in Al Golden's figurative coaching coffin.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#7 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.theonlycolors.com/">Michigan State Spartans</a></b> (6-0): Michigan State came out victorious in the Big House after Michigan's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIpPQar-9hw" target="_blank">puntastrophe</a> last weekend. [Pause for any Michigan fan reading this as they probably went into a Coma]. Sparty has survived a number of close games this season, but to its credit, keeps winning. The game at Ohio State in late November looms large and the winner will only be sacrificial lambs for the slaughter against Iowa in the B1G championship game.** Next up for Sparty is Indiana, who is currently winless in conference play.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#9 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.tomahawknation.com/">Florida State Seminoles</a> </b>(6-0); Florida State is currently the number 9 ranked team in the nation and looks to return to an Oregonless Playoff. FSU does not have a win against a ranked team this season, but will have Clemson and Florida (possibly a third in the conference championship game) for an opportunity at a quality win. Jimbo Fisher has not figured out that he needs to showcase more of <span>Dalvin Cook</span>, and less of <span>Everett Golson</span>. Golson has done fine and keeps winning, but Cook is easily one of the top 5 running backs this season in College Football. Next up is Georgia Tech and its five game losing streak.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#12 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blackheartgoldpants.com/">Iowa Hawkeyes</a></b> (7-0): Iowa. October is coming to a close, and Iowa is still in the playoff discussion. Hold on to your butts as Iowa will not play a ranked team until most likely the B1G Championship game. We are a Michigan State or Ohio State collapse away from Iowa making the playoffs. Granted, this is making huge assumptions that Iowa can take care of the bottom dwellers of the B1G East and West divisions with Mayland, Minnesota, Purdue and Nebraska. Iowa, and Kirk Ferentz, is fully capable of being beaten in nasty ways. I have yet to watch a minute of Hawkeye football, and will not be able to this weekend as they are on a bye.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#14 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cowboysrideforfree.com/">Oklahoma State Cowboys</a></b> (6-0): OSU is behind every other power five unbeaten school in the rankings. This is another team that has struggled against unranked competition and needed a <a href="http://www.goodbullhunting.com/camacho/2015/9/27/9404433/oklahoma-state-beats-texas-the-conspiracy-against-the-longhorns-runs" target="_blank">conspiracy </a>to beat the Longhorns. OSU also has the top of the Big XII remaining on their schedule, but faces OU, Baylor, and TCU at home in Stillwater. Coach <strike>Hair Gel Ima MAN</strike> Mike Gundy does get Kansas this weekend and should be 7-0 when it has to go on the road to Lubbock; a place it historically has not played well in. OSU has a tough road ahead, but could play the spoiler at home.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<h4 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Only in the footsteps of God will this team Proceed:</b></h4>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">These are the one loss teams. The teams that will need to proceed with the utmost caution, because one false step will send them plunging into the depths of non-playoff bowl season. There are a few of these teams that control their own destiny more than others (Bama, Florida, Oklahoma, etc), but all need the undefeated to fall.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#8 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rollbamaroll.com/">Alabama Crimson Tide</a></b> (6-1): Nick Saban has already taken a one loss team to the Playoffs, and is in complete control of its future. I have nothing nice to say about the Tide as I am sti...[this sentence is picked off and returned for a Tide Touchdown]. This team is good, and I hope we can have a LB corps like Saban has at his disposal. This week, Alabama has underachieving Tennessee in a rivalry game, and anything can happen. After Tennessee, Alabama will face LSU and Leonard Fournette at home. Alabama should be heavy favorites the rest of the way.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#10 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ruleoftree.com/">Stanford Cardinal</a></b> (5-1): After an opening weekend loss at Northwestern, Stanford has reeled off 5 straight wins, with a most recent dismantling of UCLA by <span>Christian McCaffrey</span>. McCaffrey is an all-purpose back and is actually fast, no 'deceptively quick' adjectives needed. If you haven't stayed up late to watch #Pac12afterDark, I highly recommend watching McCaffrey and the Stanford Cardinals. Stanford has most of the Pac12 North left to play and also plays Notre Dame at home. Next up is 3-3 Washington.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#11 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.onefootdown.com/">Notre Dame Fighting Irish</a></b> (6-1): Notre Dame is a failed 2-point conversion and Overtime away from switching places on this list with Clemson. It would have been easy to give up on ND after losing <span>Malik Zaire</span> in the second game of the season, but the Irish have won 4 of its last 5 with <span>DeShone Kizer</span> at QB. The Golden Domers are off this week on bye, but then go on the road to play at undefeated #22 Temple, and at #25 Pitt. Winning these would help Notre Dame strengthen its playoff resume. It will be interesting to see how high a one loss ND can climb in the minds of the playoff committee without a conference championship game.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#13 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.alligatorarmy.com/">Florida Gators</a></b> (6-1): Florida has an interesting road to a potential playoff berth as it has one ranked team at home (FSU) remaining on the schedule. Winning out would send Florida to the SEC conference Championship where it could set itself up as one of the top one loss teams deserving a playoff spot. Think if Florida won a rematch against an undefeated LSU on a neutral field in Atlanta?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#15 Texas A&M Aggies</b> (5-1): After throwing three pick sixes in a game in which it lost by 18, Texas A&M is still very much in the hunt, but needs Alabama to lose one more regular season game to have a shot at going to Atlanta for the SEC Conference Championship game. First, the Aggies must go to Oxford for the third time in four years and beat a ranked Ole Miss team. Kevin Sumlin has not lost in Vaught Hemingway stadium, but is a 6 point underdog to Hugh Freeze's rebel scum [<a href="https://twitter.com/cuppycup/status/656964798823927808" target="_blank">classless].</a> This matchup is the only matchup this weekend to feature two top 25 teams and is a must-win for A&M to keep its playoff hopes alive.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#17 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/">Oklahoma Sooners</a> </b>(5-1): Oklahoma is hard to get a read on. First, OU loses to 1-4 Texas in the Red River Rivalry, and comes out the next week and obliterates the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bringonthecats.com/">Kansas State Wildcats</a> 55-0. Oklahoma has Texas Tech this week in an interesting matchup where we can really learn if OU is a contender or a pretender. To close out the regular season, Big Game Bob has to have his team ready to face Baylor, TCU, and Oklahoma State back to back to back over the final three weeks of the season. Hard to imagine a scenario where OU comes out unscathed from that lineup.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#20 Cal Golden Bears</b> ( 5-1): Cal joins the one loss teams after falling to Utah on the road last weekend by 6 points. Cal is also a missed extra point from Texas kicker <span>Nick Rose</span> from having to play overtime in Austin. We will find out Thursday night if Cal can rebound against UCLA.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#23 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dukebasketballreport.com/">Duke Blue Devils</a></b> (5-1): The Blue Devils lone loss came against then ranked North Western (19-10). Since, Duke has won three straight but faces Virginia Tech on the road this weekend. Duke will play the other two 1 loss Coastal Division teams in early November, which will clear up the division's chances at sending a team to the playoff. Hint: the chances are not good.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#25 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.cardiachill.com/">Pittsburgh Panthers</a> </b>(5-1): The Panthers have a forgivable loss to obvious playoff team Iowa. Since, Pitt has won three straight but faces 3-3 Syracuse on the road this weekend. Pat Narduzzi has done a fine job turning this Pitt team around in year one. Pitt also has Notre Dame on the schedule which could give it a resume boost come playoff time. Of course this would mean beating Clemson or FSU in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/acc-championship-game">ACC Championship</a> game.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>NR UNC Tarheels</b> (5-1): UNC opened the season with a loss against South Carolina, which is not a forgivable loss. UNC has a back loaded schedule and should quickly fall off this list. However, the Tarheels look to get bowl eligible with a win against Virginia this weekend.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<h4 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Only in the leap from obscurity will the team prove its worth:</b></h4>
<p> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">These are the unbeaten non-Power 5 teams that hope to spoil the party by taking a playoff spot. This is the equivalent of placing a defensive player on the Heisman ballot. This will not happen, but would be so good for College Football, except if a one-loss Texas A&M is jumped by one of these teams.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#18 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/memphis-tigers">Memphis Tigers</a></b> (6-0): Memphis is coming off a huge victory over Ole Miss this past weekend and is 6-0 under Justin Fuente. There are some that are p<a href="http://espn.go.com/college-football/story/_/id/13928860/alabama-crimson-tide-win-cfp-title-texas-longhorns-reach-bowl-game-other-second-half-predictions" target="_blank">redicting Memphis to make a New Year's six bowl</a> this season, which would be incredible for this team from the AAC. Memphis is fun to watch. Memphis will face ranked Houston and Temple before season's end, which should be favorable to the committee.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#19 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/toledo-rockets">Toledo Rockets</a></b> (6-0): Last I saw Toledo, it was handing the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.arkansasfight.com/">Arkansas Razorbacks</a> their first loss of the season. Toledo will have a hard time convincing the committee it belongs in the playoff because it does not play any other ranked teams. In addition, Arkansas has lost two more since losing to Toledo.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#21 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/houston-cougars">Houston Cougars</a></b> (6-0): Tom Herman may prove to be one of the best hires from the last offseason as he has Houston playing very well. I have enjoyed <span>Greg Ward Jr</span>. this season. However, Houston has not beaten a ranked team this season, but will get the opportunity to face Memphis, which should be must-watch TV.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>#22 Temple Owl</b>s (6-0): Temple also has not beaten a ranked team this season, but did beat Penn State to start the year. Temple will face Memphis and Notre Dame in the regular season and could face Houston in the AAC championship game to give it three ranked opponents.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<h4 style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"><b>Way too early Predictions</b></h4>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">My playoff teams based on the first 7 weeks of college football are:</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">1. LSU</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">2. Utah</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">3. Baylor</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">4. Iowa</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">Sorry ACC. Also, will somebody please beat Baylor?</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">*Just ask TCU or Michigan State.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt;">** I don't have a crystal ball, just wanting the world to burn.</p>
https://www.goodbullhunting.com/2015/10/22/9581089/the-quest-for-the-college-football-playoffwhoopy