In an exciting but devastating Big Ten championship game, Penn State lost to Oregon. What does that signify for the future of the Nittany Lions in the College Football Playoffs?
When the CFP selection committee announces its final rankings and the full 12-team bracket on ESPN at noon on Sunday, we will know.
These are my predictions for the CFP following conference championship weekend, specifically following Penn State’s 45-37 loss to Oregon.
Remember that the top five conference winners and seven at-large teams make up the 12-team CFP. The top four ranked champions receive first-round byes. A place in the field is assured for the top-ranked Group of Five winner.
Following Penn State’s loss to Oregon in the Big Ten title game, Johnny McGonigal of PennLive presents his final predictions for the College Football Playoffs.McGonigal, Johnny
Prospects for Penn State
The Nittany Lions were seeded fifth going into the Big Ten championship game. After they faced off against the nation’s top squad, that shouldn’t change.
Because Penn State participated in the Big Ten championship game, they shouldn’t be penalized. Notre Dame, which declines to join a conference, shouldn’t fall behind. Texas, which doesn’t have a rated victory, shouldn’t be behind it. Furthermore, Ohio State shouldn’t be behind it. After all, Penn State’s initial matchup with Oregon was prompted by the Buckeyes’ humiliating defeat to Michigan.
This might be a different discussion if Oregon demolished Penn State. However, in the last minutes, the Nittany Lions had an opportunity to equal the score. Although they lost, they pushed the nation’s top squad to the limit. There’s no reason to punish them for that.
In my predictions, the first round of the CFP would take place at Beaver Stadium with No. 5 seed Penn State hosting No. 12 seed SMU. In the quarterfinals, the victor would play Arizona State, the fourth seed. It’s not an easy task, but it’s also not a horrible draw.
Overall impressions
Alabama and SMU will compete for the final place. Prior to this weekend, I stated that the Mustangs ought to qualify regardless of the outcome of the ACC final game. During the ACC regular season, SMU was unbeaten and only lost by three points to BYU in September. Clemson defeated them on a walk-off field goal. I apologize, Bama.
Georgia will receive the second seed. However, I wouldn’t be shocked if the Dawgs lost in the quarterfinals of the CFP. Even though they defeated Texas, they haven’t impressed me in the least lately.
Indiana vs. Notre Dame would be a fantastic game. It was the Hoosier state fight.
In conclusion, I am eagerly anticipating the 12-team playoffs. The past month has been filled with wacky SEC-heavy hypotheticals and bad faith arguments. Give me the games, please.
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Johnny McGonigal
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