As the college football season kicks off, hope is in the air. It used to be a daunting task for teams to compete for a national championship, especially with the birth of the four-team College Football Playoff. However, the game has changed with the new 12-team Playoff format, giving more teams a shot at glory.
Now, every team that steps onto the field has a chance to chase the dream of becoming a national champion. No longer will deserving teams like Florida State, Texas A&M, UCF, Baylor, and TCU be left out in the cold. The expansion of the Playoff field has leveled the playing field, ensuring that the national champion is decided on the field, not in a boardroom.
With a guaranteed spot for the Group of 5 champions, and the possibility of moving into the top four spots, every game matters. This is where Bubble Watch comes in, a weekly check-in to analyze the teams on the bubble and the ones with a fighting chance to make it to the Playoff.
Each week, we’ll dive into the teams moving the needle on Saturdays and keep an eye on those on the brink. One loss can change everything, but one big win can rewrite a team’s destiny.
It’s a season of new beginnings, where every team has a shot at glory. With the chaos of college football in full effect, this season promises to be unlike any other.
The Athletic‘s Austin Mock has created a model to project the initial field, giving us a glimpse into the upcoming season.
The Athletic’s projected 12-team field
The top four seeds go to the highest-ranked conference champions, with a fifth conference champion making the bracket too.
First Five out: Kansas State, Michigan, Missouri, Texas A&M, Oklahoma
Let’s take a closer look at the teams in the bubble zone and their chances of making it to the Playoff as we embark on the journey of a new season.
Newfound hope
These teams have never qualified for a Playoff but now have a stronger chance than ever.
Ole Miss
The Rebels are fielding one of their best rosters in history, setting the stage for a promising season. With their highest AP Poll ranking since 1970, Ole Miss is poised to make a statement in the Playoff race.
Percent to make Playoff: 48 percent
As the season unfolds, every game counts, and every win brings these teams closer to their Playoff dreams. Stay tuned for the latest updates and insights as we navigate the turbulent waters of college football.
(Photo of Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart: Michael Wade / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
