As the 2024 college football season heads into its final weeks, the race for the College Football Playoff (CFP) is heating up. Among the teams that remain in the hunt for a spot in the prestigious playoff are the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Ohio State Buckeyes.
While both teams have had their share of highs and lows this season, they are still firmly in the playoff picture, and their playoff hopes will come down to their performances in the final stretch of the regular season and conference championships.
Let’s take a closer look at Alabama’s chances of making the Playoff, Ohio State’s ranking, and what could happen next in this thrilling race to the final four.
Alabama’s Playoff Hopes
The Alabama Crimson Tide, under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban, have long been a powerhouse in college football. However, this season has been different from the usual dominant Alabama squads. Despite some early-season struggles, including a loss to Texas and close calls against other opponents, the Crimson Tide remains a strong contender for a College Football Playoff berth.
Strengths of Alabama’s Playoff Push:
- Elite Talent: Alabama’s roster is still one of the most talented in the country. With a strong defense, led by linebacker Dallas Turner and defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama has the ability to stifle opponents, particularly in crucial moments. On the offensive side, quarterback Jalen Milroe has shown flashes of brilliance, with his dual-threat ability creating problems for defenses. If Milroe continues to grow as a passer, the Tide’s offense could become even more dangerous.
- Potential for a Strong Finish: Alabama’s chances will depend heavily on how they perform in the coming weeks, particularly in the SEC Championship game, where they will likely face off against Georgia or another top-tier SEC team. A win in that game would almost certainly lock in their spot in the College Football Playoff. Even with a single loss, a strong finish could push Alabama into the top four, especially if other teams falter.
Challenges for Alabama:
- One Loss Too Many?: One issue that could work against Alabama is their one-loss record. While Alabama’s pedigree is undeniable, they don’t have the luxury of an undefeated season. With so many teams competing for playoff spots, Alabama’s case could be hurt if other teams with better records or stronger strength of schedule perform well in their remaining games.
- Conference Championship Implications: The SEC Championship will be the deciding factor. If Alabama fails to secure a win over a top-ranked opponent like Georgia, they may be on the outside looking in, especially if other conference champions finish unbeaten.
Ohio State’s Ranking and Playoff Prospects
Ohio State entered the 2024 season as one of the favorites for the College Football Playoff, and they’ve lived up to that billing so far. As of Week 15, the Buckeyes are still ranked in the top four, and they are in prime position to secure a playoff spot. Their lone remaining test is a potential showdown in the Big Ten Championship, likely against a tough opponent like Michigan or Penn State.
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Strengths of Ohio State’s Playoff Hopes:
- Balanced Team: Ohio State boasts a complete team with a dynamic offense and a strong defense. Quarterback Kyle McCord has stepped into the role and performed well, with star wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. providing one of the most electrifying weapons in college football. The defense, led by linebacker Tommy Eichenberg and defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, has been stingy all season, making it difficult for opponents to score.
- Impressive Resume: Ohio State’s schedule and resume are among the best in the country. With wins over quality opponents in the Big Ten and other Power Five teams, Ohio State has a case to be one of the four teams selected for the Playoff, especially if they continue to dominate their remaining regular season games and the Big Ten Championship.
- Winning Culture: Ohio State has been a regular contender for the College Football Playoff, and their reputation within the playoff committee is strong. A Big Ten Championship would likely propel them into the top four, securing their place in the Playoff.
Challenges for Ohio State:
- Tough Competition in the Big Ten: The Big Ten remains one of the most competitive conferences in the country. If Ohio State faces Michigan in the Big Ten Championship, it will be a tough challenge to overcome. Michigan has been playing at an elite level and will be hungry for a playoff berth of their own.
- Strength of Schedule Questions: While Ohio State has a solid resume, their strength of schedule could be questioned if they don’t perform well in the next few weeks. A close win in the Big Ten Championship or a loss could hurt Ohio State’s ranking and weaken their case for the top seed.
What’s at Stake for Both Teams?
Both Alabama and Ohio State have a clear path to the Playoff, but it requires them to win their remaining games, especially their conference championships. If either team falters, they risk missing out on a spot in the playoff, opening the door for other teams with strong resumes to claim a berth.
For Alabama, a win in the SEC Championship would likely guarantee them a spot, while a loss could send them to the edge of the playoff conversation, depending on how other teams perform. For Ohio State, a Big Ten Championship would likely keep them in the top four, while a loss could jeopardize their chances of securing a spot in the playoff.
Conclusion
As we head into the final weeks of the regular season, Alabama and Ohio State remain two of the most compelling teams in the race for the College Football Playoff. Alabama’s hopes hinge on a strong finish in the SEC, while Ohio State needs to maintain their dominance in the Big Ten.
Both teams have the talent and pedigree to make a run for the national title, but with only four playoff spots available, they’ll need to navigate a tough finish to secure their place in the postseason. As the playoff race heats up, fans of both teams will be on the edge of their seats, hoping for a chance to make a run at the championship.