The Big Ten and SEC are poised to have a major influence on the 12-team College Football Playoff.

This week, the main focus is on how many teams from these two powerful conferences will make the cut. Currently, there are seven teams projected: four from the SEC and three from the Big Ten.

Georgia and Oregon are the expected conference champions, with the Ducks taking the lead in the Big Ten after their victory over Ohio State, whose recent struggles against Nebraska have affected their standings. If Oregon continues to dominate through the conference championship, they are set to secure the No. 1 overall seed, pushing Georgia to No. 2.

This dynamic could shift this weekend when Ohio State faces Penn State in a crucial matchup. A loss won’t completely eliminate the Buckeyes from being considered for an at-large spot, but it could mean that the Nittany Lions and Oregon are vying for the Big Ten title.

In the SEC, there’s less uncertainty about which team is most likely to take the title, as Georgia’s impressive win over Texas places them at the forefront. The real question is which of the many teams with one or two losses will step up, with contenders like Texas A&M, Tennessee, LSU, and Alabama in the mix. Mississippi could also re-enter the conversation if they manage a surprising win against Georgia on November 9th.

Currently, Texas A&M and Tennessee have positioned themselves well for the playoffs, knocking LSU and Iowa State out of contention.

College Football Playoff Bracket Projection

Notre Dame has recovered from their early-season defeat to Northern Illinois. After a strong performance against Navy, the Irish appear to be a solid contender for an at-large playoff spot.

Notably, Texas A&M has transformed from a struggling team to the only unbeaten squad in SEC play. The Aggies’ loss to Notre Dame earlier in the season is a point that the selection committee will likely discuss when the first rankings are revealed next Tuesday.

Notre Dame is also benefiting from strong performances by Navy and Army. The Black Knights could remain unbeaten before facing Notre Dame in Yankee Stadium on November 23 if they beat Air Force and North Texas in their upcoming games.

In addition to the games against Navy and Army, the Irish will take on Florida State, Virginia, and Southern California, with only the clash against the Trojans set to happen away from home. If they maintain their winning ways, a one-loss Notre Dame team is likely to secure an at-large bid, possibly even hosting an opening playoff game.

Teams to Keep an Eye On Army, Navy, and Tulane

These three teams are currently unbeaten in American Athletic Conference play. Although Navy lost to Notre Dame, it does not eliminate their chances. Army remains the only undefeated team in the Group of Five. Tulane, despite some close losses to Kansas State and Oklahoma earlier in the season, now has four consecutive wins, including a recent high-scoring game against North Texas. These teams will meet on December 14, post-final playoff rankings, which could lead to a fascinating showdown, while Tulane wraps up its season against Navy and Memphis.

Pittsburgh

The Panthers enhanced their reputation with a decisive 41-13 victory over Syracuse. While they lack a standout win, they do have five victories against Power Four opponents who have winning records. Their upcoming matches against SMU and Clemson on November 16 will be crucial in determining if they remain in the playoff race.

Colorado

While it may seem unlikely for Colorado to secure an at-large bid due to their inability to defeat any ranked teams this season, they are in contention for a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game. Aiming for an automatic playoff berth, they are in the running thanks to their recent performances.

Alabama

Alabama’s shutout victory over Missouri keeps their hopes alive for an at-large bid as they approach their off week. Their matchup against LSU on November 9 is crucial, as it is effectively an elimination game for both squads. However, even a win there might not guarantee them a spot in the playoffs, especially if they end up with the same record as Tennessee, as they would lose the tiebreaker. The emergence of Texas A&M as a strong playoff contender adds to the challenge for Alabama.