The competition for the College Football Playoff is starting to take form as teams in the Bowl Subdivision transition into conference play.

What have we learned?

Firstly, the SEC has so far delivered on its high expectations. The conference boasts a strong lineup of contenders for the 12-team playoff, prominently featuring Georgia, Texas, and Alabama. Secondly, the Big Ten is also likely to have three or more teams in the playoff, with Ohio State, Oregon, and Penn State making the cut this week.

Additionally, Memphis, now at 3-0 after defeating Florida State, has emerged as a key competitor for the Group of Five’s playoff spot. Lastly, Cam Ward and Miami are leading the ACC, while Utah and Kansas State have established themselves as strong contenders in the Big 12.

Here’s how YSL News Sports anticipates the playoff picture as we head into Week 4:

Bracketology: Predicting the College Football Playoff teams

This week’s bracket features four SEC teams, though there are several others just outside the 12-team discussion. As predicted prior to the season, the SEC has the most credible playoff hopefuls compared to any other Power Four conference.

Currently, it’s simpler to highlight the SEC teams that are clearly out of the playoff picture or have likely already been eliminated: Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi State, and Vanderbilt.

Oklahoma, initially sitting at No. 13 in the US LBM Coaches Poll, may soon drop from consideration as they’ve delivered lackluster performances against Houston and Tulane. The Sooners will challenge Tennessee this weekend, followed by tough games against Texas, Mississippi, Missouri, and LSU.

Georgia’s struggle to secure a win against Kentucky last Saturday doesn’t necessarily indicate any serious concerns for the Bulldogs, who can sometimes play down to their opponents during the early-season conference games.

However, that narrow 13-12 score hints at potential self-destruction for the SEC once league play heats up later this month. Can more than four teams realistically maintain records that merit playoff inclusion? Historically, the SEC hasn’t had more than four teams achieve double-digit wins in a single regular season since 2012, and achieving that this year could be even more challenging with the addition of the Longhorns and Sooners.

First four teams out

Mississippi

This week’s most challenging decision revolved around choosing between Tennessee and Ole Miss, both of which have excelled in the first three weeks. While the Volunteers made the cut, Ole Miss is undoubtedly a strong team capable of making significant strides in the SEC and possibly securing an at-large bid. The Rebels’ path is still open as they prepare to host Georgia and Oklahoma and visit LSU.

Missouri

The selection committee is likely to regard Saturday’s non-conference win over Boston College favorably, which is beneficial for Missouri. Their SEC schedule could potentially lead to a 10-win regular season, but might lack the standout matchups required to gain credibility over another Power Four team with a similar record but stronger performance history.

Notre Dame

It will be difficult for Notre Dame to shake off the negative impact of their loss to Northern Illinois. Nevertheless, the Irish rebounded impressively with a decisive victory over Purdue, putting them back on track for a successful 10-win regular season. (Despite the loss to NIU, surprises can happen.)

Southern California

The Trojans have shown promise through their first two games. After defeating LSU, they now need the Tigers to step up following a less-than-stellar win against South Carolina. This weekend’s game against Michigan will offer a clearer picture of USC’s potential, even as the Wolverines struggle offensively.

Four teams to keep an eye on

Iowa State

Iowa State can secure a playoff spot by winning the Big 12. They bolsteredTheir at-large case with a recent road victory over Iowa. The Cyclones have a favorable schedule ahead of them, but will face Utah (away) and Kansas State (home) to close out the regular season, keeping them in contention into November.

Nebraska

Unbeaten Nebraska has a schedule that could elevate the No. 22 Cornhuskers in the US LBM Coaches Poll ahead of their game against Ohio State on October 26. Their next four matchups against Illinois, Purdue, Rutgers, and Indiana are all winnable, setting up a potential high-stakes game with the Buckeyes.

Washington State

Washington State has already secured two notable wins against Power Four teams: Texas Tech (37-16) and Washington (24-19). However, eight of their last nine games are against Mountain West teams, with one against Oregon State. Without a conference championship, they must win all road games against Boise State, Fresno State, and the Beavers to secure an at-large bid.

Toledo

Toledo has emerged as a popular pick within the Group of Five after an impressive 41-17 victory over Mississippi State away from home. This standout result has put the Rockets onto the Group of Five radar, but they must achieve at least 11 victories and hope Memphis loses twice to improve their standing over the American Athletic Conference.