2024-2025 College Football Playoff Selection: who’s in and who’s out of final CFP bracket,The Race for the Top Seeds Intensifies.see details>>
With conference championship weekend now in the books, the College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee faces some tough decisions. The first-ever 12-team CFP is quickly shaping up, and while Oregon and Georgia appear to have secured the top two seeds, the battle for the remaining first-round byes is heating up. Arizona State, Clemson, and Boise State are all vying for a coveted spot, and the committee will need to carefully assess their resumes before making a final decision.
Oregon and Georgia: The Early Favorites for the Top Seeds
The first two seeds in the 12-team playoff seem all but locked up by Oregon and Georgia, both of whom have had stellar seasons. The Ducks are poised to take the No. 1 spot after an impressive run through the Pac-12, while Georgia, with its powerful and consistent performances throughout the season, is likely to follow closely behind. Both teams have been dominant, showcasing balanced offenses and strong defenses, and it would be a shock if they didn’t secure the top two positions.
Arizona State’s Impressive Rise
The real intrigue, however, lies in the fight for the other two first-round byes. Arizona State, crowned Big 12 champions after a dominant victory over Iowa State, has made a significant case for a top-tier position. Under the guidance of first-year head coach Kenny Dillingham, the Sun Devils have turned their fortunes around in remarkable fashion. A team that finished 3-9 last season now sits at 11-2, having won six consecutive games.
During this impressive streak, Arizona State has been averaging a whopping 37.2 points per game, showcasing the kind of offensive firepower that would make them a formidable playoff contender. Dillingham has worked wonders in transforming this team, and their resounding victory over Iowa State further cemented their place in the playoff conversation.
Clemson: A Perennial Power in the CFP Discussion
Meanwhile, Clemson, fresh off a win over SMU in the ACC Championship Game, remains a consistent contender for the top four. While the Tigers entered the game without a ranked win on their résumé, their performance in the title game may have been enough to tip the scales in their favor. With nine or more wins for 14 consecutive seasons under head coach Dabo Swinney, Clemson has long been a fixture in the College Football Playoff picture.
The victory over SMU, though significant, may not be enough to vault Clemson into a first-round bye without more impressive wins. The Tigers’ overall strength of schedule has been questioned, and their lack of marquee wins might hurt them in the eyes of the selection committee, especially compared to other teams making a late-season push.
Boise State: A Sleeper in the Race
Finally, Boise State, the Mountain West champions, have quietly made their case for a top-four finish as well. The Broncos have been a perennial powerhouse in the Group of Five, and their strong season culminated in a title victory that could see them rising up the rankings. While they may not have the same level of competition as the Power Five programs, Boise State’s resume, particularly its dominance in the Mountain West, gives them a compelling argument for a playoff spot. A solid performance in a major bowl game might also help their cause.
The Committee’s Dilemma
As the committee deliberates, it will need to balance the strength of schedule, head-to-head results, and overall performance. Arizona State’s red-hot finish and high-scoring offense make them a dangerous team, while Clemson’s long track record of success and pedigree in big games makes them a constant threat. Boise State, though often overlooked, has the kind of consistency and winning culture that could push them into the conversation for a first-round bye.
While Oregon and Georgia are likely to claim the top two spots, the final two byes will be a fascinating debate. The selection committee will need to weigh recent form, strength of schedule, and overall body of work as they decide which teams will get the privilege of a first-round bye in the inaugural 12-team playoff.
With conference championships in the rearview mirror, the road to the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff is wide open. The next few days will be crucial in determining which teams are truly deserving of a top-four finish and which ones will be fighting for a spot in the first round. One thing’s for certain: this year’s playoff selection promises to be as thrilling and unpredictable as ever.
