The stage is set for the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) following a thrilling conference championship weekend. The five critical matchups delivered drama, including blowouts, comebacks, and overtime nail-biters, reshaping the playoff bracket. Here’s a breakdown of the key moments and what’s ahead:
SEC Championship: Georgia Edges Texas in Overtime
- Final Score: Georgia 22, Texas 19
- Despite being favorites, Texas struggled offensively, managing only two field goals in the first half while leading 6-3.
- Georgia’s backup QB Gunner Stockton provided a spark after starter Carson Beck exited due to injury, helping the Bulldogs take a 13-6 lead into the fourth quarter.
- A late interception by Stockton allowed Texas to force overtime with a field goal, but Georgia sealed the win with a touchdown after Texas settled for three points in their OT possession.
- Both teams qualified for the CFP, but Texas now faces a potentially easier path with a first-round home game against Clemson.
Other Key Conference Championship Results
- Mountain West Championship:
- Boise State 21, UNLV 7
- Boise State dominated all season and secured a CFP spot with a first-round bye.
- Big 12 Championship:
- Arizona State 45, Iowa State 19
- Arizona State’s improbable rise from preseason last-place predictions to conference champions earned them a first-round bye in the CFP.
- Big Ten Championship:
- Oregon 45, Penn State 7
- The Ducks cemented their place as the top overall seed with a dominant performance. Penn State still secured a playoff berth.
- ACC Championship:
- Clemson 34, SMU 31
- Clemson survived a furious comeback by SMU, winning on a 56-yard field goal in the final seconds to claim their playoff spot.
CFP Matchups and Schedule
The 12-team format provides new excitement, with first-round games hosted by higher-seeded teams.
- First Round Highlights:
- Texas (#2) vs. Clemson (#11) at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium on December 21, 3:00 PM CT (TNT, Max). Texas is favored by 11 points.
- Notre Dame vs. Georgia: Georgia will have a tougher path to the semis, facing the Fighting Irish in what promises to be a marquee showdown.
Implications and Outlook
- Texas: The Longhorns must fix offensive and special teams issues to realize their championship ambitions.
- Georgia: Their resilience under pressure and ability to adapt to adversity with backup QB Stockton make them a dangerous contender.
- Dark Horses: Teams like Arizona State and Clemson have momentum and could disrupt the favorites.
The expanded CFP format ensures high-stakes action and fresh opportunities for underdogs to shine. With two weeks to go, fans can anticipate one of the most thrilling postseason runs in college football history.