UPDATE: As the College Football Playoff (CFP) picture tightens, the Oregon Ducks find themselves in a crucial position heading into the championship weekend. With an 11-1 season record, the Ducks are just two wins away from solidifying their postseason path, but they need some help.
Oregon, currently projected as the No. 5 seed, is watching closely as No. 3 Georgia and No. 4 Texas Tech face off in their respective championship games this weekend. If either team falters, Oregon could leap into the top four of the final CFP rankings, earning a critical bye into the quarterfinals.
The stakes are high: a top-four finish would mean no opening-round home game but a favorable matchup against the No. 12 seed at Autzen Stadium in mid-December, likely against a Group of Five team or five-loss Duke if they win the ACC.
Oregon’s journey this season has been marked by a significant midseason loss to Indiana, but their current positioning suggests they have learned from past experiences. The Ducks remember well their perfect season last year, which ended in disappointment against Ohio State in the Rose Bowl.
With the final CFP rankings set to be released Sunday morning, Oregon fans are hoping for a smooth ride. They will be rooting for Georgia and Texas Tech, two teams that, if victorious, could secure Oregon’s path to the semifinals.
As for the championship games themselves, here’s what to expect:
Championship Game Picks
Friday, December 1, 2023
North Texas (-2.5) at Tulane, 5 p.m. on ABC: This matchup features two ranked teams with CFP aspirations. Tulane aims for its fourth consecutive championship appearance, while North Texas, despite being dangerous through the air, faces pressure on this big stage. Pick: Tulane
UNLV (+4.5) at Boise State, 5 p.m. on Fox: The Broncos have dominated this rivalry, winning the last two Mountain West championship games decisively. Expect a close contest, even amid harsh weather conditions. Pick: UNLV
Saturday, December 2, 2023
BYU (+12.5) vs. Texas Tech, 9 a.m. on ABC: BYU enters as a significant underdog, but after a poor performance against Texas Tech last month, they are determined to prove themselves. Pick: BYU
Georgia (-2.5) vs. Alabama, 1 p.m. on ABC: With Alabama on the CFP cut line, this game is crucial for them. Georgia, already locked for the playoff, aims to maintain their dominance. Pick: Georgia
Virginia (-3.5) vs. Duke, 5 p.m. on ABC: A Duke victory could have significant implications for the ACC, potentially shutting them out of the CFP. Virginia won their previous matchup convincingly. Pick: Duke
Ohio State (-4.5) vs. Indiana, 5 p.m. on Fox: This clash between the undefeated No. 1 Buckeyes and No. 2 Hoosiers holds pride and history, as Indiana seeks its first Big Ten title since 1967. Pick: Indiana
As Oregon waits on the outcomes of these pivotal games, fans are focused on what will come next. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated; every game matters as the Ducks strive to secure their place in the CFP semifinals.
Stay tuned for further updates as the championship weekend unfolds.
