It was ugly, it was physical, it was low scoring, and it was ... a Georgia loss?  Recent college ...

<p>It was ugly, it was physical, it was low scoring, and it was ... a Georgia loss?</p><p>Recent college football seasons would suggest there's no better team in the country than the Bulldogs to win that style of game. Yet it was Notre Dame that outdid the SEC champs Thursday in the Sugar Bowl to post arguably the program's biggest win in the last 30 years.</p><p>The overall statistics aren't flattering - Riley Leonard's 90 passing yards are the lowest by a winning team in College Football Playoff history. However, three things stood out to help the Fighting Irish secure the win and book a semifinal date with Penn State.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Win the trenches</h3><p>Notre Dame physically dominated Kirby Smart's Georgia team on the line of scrimmage. You can count on one hand - maybe even just one finger - how many times that's happened during Smart's tenure with the Bulldogs. The Irish have sent plenty of linemen to the NFL in recent years, but the program would always seemingly fail to assert itself physically when given a chance against an SEC opponent. That didn't seem to bode well for a quarterfinal matchup against arguably the most physical team in college football over the last eight years.</p><p>But Notre Dame didn't get that memo, immediately getting after quarterback Gunner Stockton in his first career collegiate start and forcing a fumble out of bounds. The final number for the Irish's vaunted defense was four sacks, nine tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles.</p><p>The biggest matchup in Notre Dame's history since the 1988 national championship was undoubtedly the 2013 BCS title game versus Alabama. That contest was over mere seconds after it started, with the Crimson Tide physically dominating en route to a 42-14 win. Thursday showed that this Notre Dame team is a far cry from that outfit and can physically stack up against anybody in the country.</p><h3>Force turnovers</h3><p>Notre Dame has played 14 games on the season and has forced at least one turnover in 13 of those. The one without a takeaway? The shocking home loss to Northern Illinois in Week 2. Simply put, you're going to have a bad time if you let the Irish take the ball away.</p><p>That was highlighted most prominently on a lethal pass rush late in the second quarter that essentially decided the game.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Notre Dame forces another Georgia fumble and finds the end zone on the next play! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFBPlayoff?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFBPlayoff</a> <a href="https://t.co/95Vy8yS1Wj">pic.twitter.com/95Vy8yS1Wj</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1874950481396600922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The sack and fumble recovery gave the Irish incredible field position, and they wasted no time cashing in that chance. The ensuing touchdown pushed Notre Dame to a 13-3 lead at half - a shocking turn considering it was tied 3-3 just minutes earlier. That puts the Irish at 148 points scored off turnovers this campaign - 42 more than the next-best team at the FBS level.</p><p>That turnover was one of two forced by Notre Dame on the night, while the offense kept control of the ball and didn't let Georgia get a takeaway.</p><h3>Make plays on special teams</h3><p>Georgia has shown its resolve numerous times this season in erasing deficits, including the Bulldogs' last game out in the SEC championship. The second-half plan Thursday started by forcing a quick Notre Dame punt to flip the field and get Georgia on track. Well, everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth, and you can consider this Notre Dame's haymaker.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Notre Dame takes the opening kick of the second half to the house‼️ <a href="https://t.co/7nPR29xTnV">pic.twitter.com/7nPR29xTnV</a></p>— ESPN (@espn) <a href="https://twitter.com/espn/status/1874956336884015596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 98-yard touchdown was certainly the highlight of the special teams unit, which dominated all night. They nearly blocked multiple punts and repeatedly kept the Bulldogs pinned.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JANUARY 02: Head coach Marcus Freeman of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates with his team after a 23-10 victory against the Georgia Bulldogs in the 91st Allstate Sugar Bowl at Caesars Superdome on January 02, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

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Irish blueprint: How Notre Dame took down Georgia in Sugar Bowl

College Football Wrap-Up recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examine...

<p><em>College Football Wrap-Up recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Nobody beats this version of Ohio State</h3><p>The College Football Playoff might as well be renamed the Ohio State redemption tour at this point. The Buckeyes haven't been content in just beating Tennessee and Oregon, as they've blown the doors off the competition thus far and made it clear they'll be national champions if they keep this form up.</p><p>Ohio State embarrassed the Ducks in the Rose Bowl, racing to an astonishing 34-0 lead in the opening two quarters. It was domination on both sides of the football against the only undefeated team in the nation - one that had beaten the Buckeyes earlier in the season by a single point.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Offense</strong></p><p>Ryan Day and Chip Kelly clearly read all your social media posts asking - begging, really - for the offense to feed Jeremiah Smith. After Smith had just five catches in the loss to Michigan, the star freshman has exploded for 16 catches for 290 yards and four touchdowns in the two playoff games since. Unleashing Smith has benefitted the entire offense, opening plenty of holes for explosive plays in both the running game and aerial attack.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Prior to today, the AP No. 1 team had not allowed 4 offensive TDs of 40+ yards in an entire game this century.<br><br>Ohio State had 4 in the first half alone against Oregon. <a href="https://t.co/r55jD4QHIb">pic.twitter.com/r55jD4QHIb</a></p>— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaSTATS/status/1874612415431922099?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Buckeyes totaled 500 yards on just 57 plays, a remarkable 8.8 yards every time they snapped the ball. You can't stop the plethora of weapons Ohio State presents, and it'll be points every drive if the play-calling matches the talent.</p><p><strong>Defense</strong></p><p>Ohio State barely breathed on Dillon Gabriel in the October matchup between the teams, posting zero sacks and two tackles for loss in the setback. Wednesday was the complete opposite, as the Buckeyes dominated with an eight-sack performance that helped hold the Ducks to minus-23 rushing yards.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Oregon is sacked 6+ times in a game for 1st time since they took 7 vs Washington State 9/20/2014</p>— Josh Dubow (@JoshDubowAP) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshDubowAP/status/1874621855509954854?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Cody Simon, J.T. Tuimoloau, and Jack Sawyer wrecked Oregon's entire offensive plan, combining for six sacks and eight tackles for loss. With no running game and virtually zero protection for Gabriel, it was a Duck hunt all day for the Buckeyes' defense.</p><p>Texas is next up in a blockbuster semifinal to be played in Arlington at the Cotton Bowl - a venue that gives the Longhorns significant home-field advantage. However, they could play the game in Steve Sarkisian's backyard, and it wouldn't matter if this version of the Buckeyes makes the trip south.</p><h3>Playoff Texas has multiple personalities</h3><p>The College Football Playoff has revealed that when Texas takes the field, it isn't one team but two: the dominant one we see each first half and the "hang on for dear life" outfit that plays the second.</p><p>The first-half Longhorns have outscored Clemson and Arizona State by a combined 45-17 margin while piling up a whopping 7.15 yards per play on offense. <em><strong>That</strong></em> Texas team can win the national title regardless of opposition.</p><p>However, games don't end after 30 minutes, and whatever the coaching staff is doing in the locker room at the break clearly ain't working. The Longhorns were outscored 35-17 during the second half of their opening playoff games, and they allowed over 7 yards per play to the Tigers and Sun Devils compared to just 4.6 in the first half. <em><strong>That </strong></em>Texas team can lose to just about anybody in the postseason, a possibility that nearly played out Wednesday in Atlanta.</p><p>Overtime kept the two-team narrative alive, with the Longhorns trailing 31-24 and needing to convert on fourth-and-13 to force a second extra frame. Of course, Quinn Ewers tossed a touchdown on Texas' next offensive play, and an interception four plays later put the school in the semifinals.</p><p>The good news for the Longhorns is that the program finds itself in the CFP semis for the second year in a row. The bad news? Unless first-half Texas plays the full game against Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl, it'll be another semifinal exit in 2025.</p><h3>Skattebo the GOAT</h3><p>Turns out, Cam Skattebo knew what he was talking about when he told reporters in the build-up to the Peach Bowl that nobody could stop him.</p><p>Skattebo spent New Year's Day like many people in their early 20s around the country: trying to <a href="https://x.com/ChrisKarpman/status/1874587088483700921">rally after vomiting</a>. Despite the Arizona State star battling dehydration and exhaustion on the sideline throughout the Peach Bowl, he still delivered a performance for the ages by rushing, catching, and throwing the ball.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">CAM SKATTEBO APPRECIATION POST<br><br>😈 143 rushing yards<br>😈 99 receiving yards<br>😈 42 passing yards<br>😈 2 rushing TDs<br>😈 1 passing TD <a href="https://t.co/buoe8r4euj">pic.twitter.com/buoe8r4euj</a></p>— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/YahooSports/status/1874584319252963471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Texas has five-star recruits all over the defensive roster, while Skattebo received one Division I offer out of high school. The Longhorns knew Skattebo was getting the ball time after time Wednesday and still couldn't stop it. His 143 yards rushing, 99 receiving, and 42 passing gave him an insane total of 284 on the night.</p><p>The idea of a Cinderella seemed dead through five games of the first 12-team CFP - we even <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3175759" href="https://thescore.com/news/3175759">wrote as much</a> after Penn State's victory over Boise State on New Year's Eve. But Skattebo and Arizona State laughed in the face of that idea just 12 hours later. They didn't end up pulling off the upset, but the legend of Skattebo is forever etched in college football history.</p><h3>Penn State defense sticks to plan</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763199/cropped_GettyImages-2191408896.jpg?ts=1735779180" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763199/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191408896.jpg?ts=1735779180 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763199/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191408896.jpg?ts=1735779180 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763199/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191408896.jpg?ts=1735779180 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763199/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191408896.jpg?ts=1735779180 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763199/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191408896.jpg?ts=1735779180 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ashton Jeanty still cracked the 100-yard mark - because, of course, he did - but Penn State's defensive plan was a smashing success Tuesday night. The Nittany Lions sold out essentially every play to stop Jeanty, with the All-American running back needing 30 carries to get his 104 yards. Many of those runs required him to break multiple tackles just to return to the line of scrimmage, as the defense swarmed an overmatched Boise State offensive line throughout.</p><p>Jeanty would be a superstar on any team in any league at the college level, but it was clear the offensive line hadn't faced a top-20 run defense all season. That left it up to quarterback Maddux Madsen to solve the Penn State defense. He battled respectably with over 300 yards passing but threw three interceptions when forced to take chances he normally wouldn't have to press on.</p><p>Penn State's defense through two playoff contests should have the fan base fired up for the semifinal matchup against Notre Dame or Georgia. Both teams are limited in the passing game, a scenario that will again allow the Nittany Lions to stack the box and make the quarterback beat them.</p><h3>The offense ... not so much</h3><p>While Penn State's defense stuck to a plan, the offense seemed bored with pounding the run and moving the ball at will for the entire game. The Nittany Lions opened by establishing its dominance on the ground, running the ball 10 times in the first 13 plays and scoring two touchdowns.</p><p>It was clear from the jump that the duo of Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton would be too much to handle, yet Penn State only handed the ball to either on nine of its next 30 plays. Allen and Singleton would finish the game with a combined 221 yards rushing - both averaging over 7 yards per carry.</p><p>Penn State's lack of a game-breaker at wide receiver is a major weakness on offense. Tyler Warren is the best tight end in the country, but the wideout position features several good options who fall short of being elite. However, Allen and Singleton are arguably the best running back duo in the playoff. Moving forward, the plan for the Nittany Lions should revolve around those two, with Warren mixed in.</p>

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CFB Wrap-Up: Takeaways from CFP quarterfinals

Every March, a Cinderella team emerges from a lesser-known conference to make a captivating run i...

<p>Every March, a Cinderella team emerges from a lesser-known conference to make a captivating run in basketball's NCAA Tournament.</p><p>College football had a chance to capture some of that magic Tuesday as the playoff expanded to 12 teams and let a Group of 5 champion in the field with a bye.</p><p>Well, it ain't March, this isn't basketball, and the Fiesta Bowl showed why it'll be significantly more difficult for the college football world to bring similar upsets to those we see annually during March Madness.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Boise State's history as a plucky underdog is well-documented, particularly in previous Fiesta Bowls. However, a playoff game with elevated stakes is a much taller task than a Power conference matchup with a team probably disappointed to be there.</p><p>There were no illusions from the jump that Penn State would sell out to stop star running back Ashton Jeanty on defense. The Nittany Lions repeatedly stacked the box to hold the Heisman finalist to just 4 yards on three carries on the opening drive. That essentially dared Maddux Madsen to beat them through the air if Boise State wanted to move the ball. The first-year starter should get credit for doing so at times, but three interceptions certainly didn't help the cause.</p><p>Perhaps we shouldn't have been overly shocked by Jeanty's struggles to move the ball Tuesday against the seventh-best defense in the nation. The average ranking of the rushing defense he saw this year was 91st. Outside of the two games against UNLV, Jeanty didn't face a top-50 rushing defense all season. Before you shout 'Oregon!,' the Ducks are 55th at stopping the run and allowed 297 yards on the ground to Penn State last time out. Jeanty still topped the 100-yard mark with 104, but it took him 30 carries, and he produced his worst output on the schedule.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763104/cropped_GettyImages-2191990926.jpg?ts=1735705281" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763104/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191990926.jpg?ts=1735705281 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763104/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191990926.jpg?ts=1735705281 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763104/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191990926.jpg?ts=1735705281 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763104/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191990926.jpg?ts=1735705281 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763104/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191990926.jpg?ts=1735705281 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Christian Petersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Jeanty's brilliance is without question, but a single individual dominating on a field with 22 players is a different challenge than a basketball court with 10. A shooter can get hot and torch the higher-rated opponent - see <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7k4vg-cyIc">Jack Gohlke versus Kentucky, 2024</a> - but even Jeanty needs plenty of help from his offensive line.</p><p>Penn State's offense looked unstoppable in the opening quarter, with questionable play-calling perhaps the only thing that slowed it down the rest of the way. Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton torched the opposition for 221 yards on a gaudy 7.6 yards per carry for the game. However, the duo only combined for 29 carries, while Drew Allar threw 25 times. Had the Nittany Lions pounded the run more, the final margin could've been even more jarring.</p><p>We knew Penn State would be bigger, faster, and stronger across the field, and that's what was on display over the 60 minutes of game action Tuesday. It was never more evident than when Tyler Warren grabbed his second touchdown of the contest, the nation's top tight end somehow pulling in a pass despite perfect coverage.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Allar to Tyler Warren, great catch for a TD <a href="https://t.co/kQ0BFEBuiQ">pic.twitter.com/kQ0BFEBuiQ</a></p>— CJ Fogler 🫡 (@cjzero) <a href="https://twitter.com/cjzero/status/1874290122273022122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>While the game was played within 10 points for a large stretch, it never seemed like Boise State would threaten once Penn State bottled up Jeanty.</p><p>Maybe 13.5-point underdog Arizona State will prove us wrong in Wednesday's opening game, but Tuesday sure made it look like the upsets will remain in March on the NCAA sports calendar for the foreseeable future.</p>

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 31: Penn State defensive end Dani Dennis-Sutton (33) celebrates a defensive stop during the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl quarterfinal playoff game between the Boise State Broncos and the Penn State Nittany Lions on Tuesday December 31, 2024 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, AZ.

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Penn State reminds us Cinderella doesn't play football

The College Football Playoff first round is done and dusted, with New Year's Eve and New Year's D...

<p>The College Football Playoff first round is done and dusted, with New Year's Eve and New Year's Day setting the backdrop for some intriguing quarterfinal matchups.</p><p>There's plenty at stake for the six remaining teams playing Wednesday, but one standout narrative exists for each as they attempt to advance to the semifinals and beyond.</p><p><strong>Notre Dame:</strong> Show it belongs in the big-time</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Blow the dust off a history book, and it's clear Notre Dame is one of the most successful programs in college football history. However, most of that work was done long ago, with 1988 representing the last claimed national title. Current coach Marcus Freeman was a 2-year-old when the Fighting Irish were last atop the sport. While there have been plenty of wins - especially over the past 15 years - Notre Dame has failed time and again when facing the behemoths of the sport.</p><p>The proving ground doesn't get any bigger than Georgia in the playoffs. The Irish should actually feel fairly comfortable with a Bulldogs team they've faced twice since 2017, with a pair of narrow losses by a combined seven points. Win, and the Irish can rightfully claim their place back among the nation's elite. Lose, and it's yet another missed chance against a top opponent to end a season that also featured a home loss to Northern Illinois.</p><p><strong>Ohio State:</strong> Ryan Day's job security</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749096/cropped_GettyImages-2177321915.jpg?ts=1728426286" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749096/w220xh124_GettyImages-2177321915.jpg?ts=1728426286 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749096/w320xh180_GettyImages-2177321915.jpg?ts=1728426286 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749096/w640xh360_GettyImages-2177321915.jpg?ts=1728426286 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749096/w768xh432_GettyImages-2177321915.jpg?ts=1728426286 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749096/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2177321915.jpg?ts=1728426286 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jason Mowry / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It sounds outrageous that a coach in the quarterfinals could be facing a must-win for his job security, but normal isn't a word we would use to describe Ryan Day's situation at Ohio State. The first-round Tennessee blowout provided a momentary respite from the endless criticism of Day following the stunning Michigan loss. However, should the Buckeyes fall to Oregon, the dam might just break for good on Day's tenure in Columbus.</p><p>Sure, his 67-10 overall record is sparkling, but a New Year's Day defeat would make him 0-6 in his last six games against Michigan and Oregon. While the Ducks' losses alone might be forgivable, the glaring problem with the team up north certainly isn't. The veteran coach told <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mAF0CpPPDD0">Joel Klatt of Fox Sports</a> that the two goals this season were winning the rivalry game and the national championship ... in that order. He's already 0-1 in that pursuit, and a second setback to Oregon would mean he's unsuccessful on both fronts.</p><p>Ohio State put $20 million toward the roster this season to bring back future NFL pros and dominate recruiting in both the transfer portal and high school ranks. Both Chip Kelly and Jim Knowles are making at least $2 million as coordinators - ranking among the highest-paid assistants in the country. That type of investment certainly isn't for a three-loss team that didn't make the Big Ten title game or the CFP semis.</p><p>Or the Buckeyes could play like they did against Tennessee, run the table, and win the program's ninth national championship. No pressure, Ryan.</p><p><strong>Oregon:</strong> Pursuit of perfection</p><p>Oregon has been the lone constant throughout the chaotic 2024 season. Each time the Ducks have taken the field, they've walked off as a winner, despite a few close calls along the way. The closest was the one-point triumph over Ohio State - a game that could have ended very differently had Will Howard put his backside on the ground one second earlier.</p><p>Dan Lanning's been nothing short of brilliant in his three seasons with the program, and the Rose Bowl presents a perfect opportunity to flex his coaching chops. The first matchup with the Buckeyes was as even as it gets, with two fumbles by the visitors essentially the deciding factor. What type of adjustments will Lanning's Ducks make for Wednesday to ensure the game is decided long before the final clock hits zero?</p><p>Three more wins and the Ducks won't only complete the first perfect season in the 107-year history of the program but also become the first team to win 16 games in a college football season.</p><p><strong>Texas:</strong> Final step toward being "back"</p><p>Raise your hand if you imagine ESPN's Joe Tessitore yelling "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4fXeywF0d0">Texas is back</a>!" every time the Longhorns win a big game. There have been plenty of those in the past two seasons as Steve Sarkisian's revived the former powerhouse program. The Longhorns have been blessed with a very comfortable path to the semis and made no mistake with a double-digit win over Clemson in Round 1. The quarterfinal actually sets up as an even easier matchup on paper, with Texas almost a two-touchdown favorite in the neutral-site contest.</p><p>Sarkisian is the only coach from last year's semifinal still with the same program following Nick Saban's retirement, Jim Harbaugh's move to the NFL, and Kalen DeBoer's departure to Alabama. There'll be no question who the top program in the nation has been over the past two years should Sarkisian complete the playoff push and follow up last year's semifinal appearance with a national title. That's a pretty strong argument that the Longhorns are back.</p><p>Oh, and Tessitore happens to be on the call for Wednesday's game.</p><p><strong>Georgia:</strong> Kirby Smart legend status</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743306/cropped_GettyImages-2168849151.jpg?ts=1725139284" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743306/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168849151.jpg?ts=1725139284 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743306/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168849151.jpg?ts=1725139284 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743306/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168849151.jpg?ts=1725139284 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743306/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168849151.jpg?ts=1725139284 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743306/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168849151.jpg?ts=1725139284 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Kirkland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's no question Kirby Smart is already a legend in the state of Georgia, but a third national title in the last four years would cement the 49-year-old's legacy across the entire sport. Only 15 men have won that many NCAA football championships in history. That shrinks to just five in the last 50 years as the sport changed drastically. Should he finish the job this time around, it would be his most impressive feat in his time with Georgia.</p><p>The Bulldogs are still loaded with talent, but it's a fair argument to call them the weakest of Smart's teams in the past five years. Georgia has further been handicapped by the absence of starting quarterback Carson Beck after elbow surgery following an injury in the SEC title game. That means Smart will go into battle against Notre Dame with Gunner Stockton making his first career start.</p><p>If Smart can somehow claim a third national title with a backup quarterback, his name belongs in any conversation of the top coaches in the last half-century of college football.</p><p><strong>Arizona State:</strong> Justify the record</p><p>Arizona State posted a combined 6-18 record in 2022 and '23 before its sparkling 11-2 mark this season. College Football Playoff, meet Cinderella. There's no question the Sun Devils are the plucky underdogs that neutral fans can get behind. Now the monumental task is upon Kenny Dillingham and the Big 12 champs: Keep the slipper on the foot and make sure the ball doesn't end Wednesday.</p><p>Arizona State is playing with house money at this point, with virtually nobody expecting the Sun Devils to knock off Texas. They have an identifiable star in Cam Skattebo who plays an appealing style of football, but the Longhorns' run defense is one of the top units in the playoff. The 2024 season has been full of chaos, so perhaps there's one final shocker on hand in Atlanta.</p>

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What's at stake for each team in CFP quarters

There were six games in the opening weekend of last year's NFL playoffs. Five ended in blowouts w...

<p>There were six games in the opening weekend of last year's NFL playoffs. Five ended in blowouts won by at least 14 points.</p><p>Nobody stormed to a television set or raced online to demand drastic format changes and moan about a team's inclusion.</p><p>The NBA playoffs last year featured eight opening-round series, with only one going to seven games. Half of them didn't even get past five contests. Somehow, the league is running the same formula back out this year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The dirty secret seemingly nobody complaining about the first weekend of the 12-team College Football Playoff wanted to acknowledge Saturday is that the opening round of playoff formats often underwhelm due to a large talent discrepancy between the teams involved. The Stanley Cup Playoffs might be an exception, but that's because playoff hockey is the single most insane thing legally conducted on the planet.</p><p>Sure, the four first-round games we watched this weekend were largely uncompetitive and presented a less-than-stellar product. However, that's probably what we should've expected given the matchups.</p><p>Curt Cignetti did his best to convince you that <a href="https://x.com/CollegeGameDay/status/1870246917596135493">beating the shit</a> out of the No. 25 team in the Week 9 Coaches Poll made Indiana some sort of juggernaut, but the Hoosiers showed multiple times this season that they struggle against top competition. Friday's loss to Notre Dame was no surprise, but that doesn't mean Indiana should've been banished from the tournament field.</p><p>SMU won 11 games this season but had already lost its two toughest contests - to BYU and Clemson - on the schedule. Penn State wasted no time asserting its dominance at home, housing two pick-6s off Kevin Jennings in the opening half. There's a reason the Nittany Lions were favored by more than a touchdown at home.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761780/cropped_GettyImages-2191000362.jpg?ts=1734837971" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761780/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191000362.jpg?ts=1734837971 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761780/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191000362.jpg?ts=1734837971 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761780/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191000362.jpg?ts=1734837971 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761780/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191000362.jpg?ts=1734837971 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761780/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191000362.jpg?ts=1734837971 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Clemson is an unlikely Cinderella given its history in the CFP, but the Tigers wouldn't have been in the field without Miami collapsing in the season finale at Syracuse. They were completely overmatched by Texas in a comfortable victory despite an early touchdown and a late rally.</p><p>The night cap offered the most hope for a competitive game given the pedigree and similar talent levels of Tennessee and Ohio State. The Buckeyes apparently didn't get that memo, racing out to a 21-0 lead and utterly dominating the Volunteers despite the fact the Tennessee faithful filled almost half of Ohio Stadium.</p><p>Blowouts haven't been limited to the 12-team CFP field, either. Twelve of the 20 semifinals in the history of the format were won by at least 14 points even after some outstanding semifinal games over the final two years of the four-team playoff.</p><p>Maybe we thought the expansion of the football field would make things more like the NCAA basketball tournament. However, there are 32 opening-round games each March Madness - you're bound to see a couple of upsets given that many chances.</p><p>That's not to say the CFP format is perfect. The easiest change is to no longer give the highest-ranked conference champions a top-four seed and a first-round bye. That would've given Texas and Penn State the weekend off and forced Boise State and Arizona State into road games. It's an easy change to make for next season and beyond when the playoff expands to 14 teams.</p><p>Our advice to those disappointed with this weekend's display is to be patient.</p><p>Oregon gets a rematch with Ohio State after the two played a thrilling one-point contest earlier this season. Georgia - arguably the best team in college football for the past five years - faces the hottest team in the country in Notre Dame. If you want an actual Cinderella story, how about an Arizona State team that won just three games last year facing a 2023 semifinalist in Texas. The fourth contest will see the nation's best offensive player, Ashton Jeanty, chase history against a stout Penn State defense.</p><p>Don't worry, college football fans - the blockbuster matchups are on their way.</p>

STATE COLLEGE, PENNSYLVANIA - DECEMBER 21: A view of the scoreboard during the fourth quarter between the Southern Methodist Mustangs and Penn State Nittany Lions in the Playoff First Round Game at Beaver Stadium on December 21, 2024 in State College, Pennsylvania.

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CFP opening round had blowouts, and that's OK

<p><em>College Football Wrap-Up recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Penn State shows home field matters</h3><p>SMU faced arguably the toughest road test of the opening round - a school from Dallas playing in 20-degree temperatures with over 100,000 Penn State fans screaming for three hours. The Mustangs didn't just fail that test - they never had a chance.</p><p>We highlighted in our <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161279" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161279">CFP preview piece</a> earlier this week that SMU needed to hit explosive plays against Penn State. Unfortunately for the Mustangs, it was the Nittany Lions who hit explosive plays at Beaver Stadium.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kevin Jennings opened the game by throwing not one but two pick-6s to immediately spot Penn State a 14-0 lead. Not all pick-6s are the fault of the quarterback. However, it's fair to pin both of these on Jennings, especially the backbreaking second interception that came in Penn State territory.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">ANOTHER PICK-SIX FOR PENN STATE 😱<br><br>THE CROWD IS GOING WILD IN HAPPY VALLEY 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/pxw89CKvXE">pic.twitter.com/pxw89CKvXE</a></p>— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/1870531359418003706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Jennings and Co. were clearly having issues with noise throughout the game, as indicated by three interceptions and a whopping 11 tackles for loss. The home favorites took it from there, putting SMU in a crock pot and slowly roasting the visitors for a dominant 38-10 victory.</p><p>The second half was played for official purposes, but the game was long done before the final whistle. Penn State rested its starters in the final quarter.</p><p>James Franklin's team certainly has flaws, but there are two things we trust with the Big Ten runner-ups: their rushing attack and defense. Both shone bright Saturday. The running-back duo of Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton combined for 160 yards and three touchdowns on just 25 carries.</p><p>The reward for the Nittany Lions is Ashton Jeanty and Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl, a contest in which the 6-seed should be heavy favorites over No. 3. Jeanty needs just 131 yards to break Barry Sanders' all-time single-season rushing record, a number he's hit in every game this year. However, Penn State has yet to allow that many to a single player this season, and you can be damn sure it doesn't want to be on the wrong side of history.</p><h3>Run Texas, run</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761758/cropped_GettyImages-2190993123.jpg?ts=1734829824" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761758/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190993123.jpg?ts=1734829824 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761758/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190993123.jpg?ts=1734829824 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761758/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190993123.jpg?ts=1734829824 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761758/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190993123.jpg?ts=1734829824 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761758/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190993123.jpg?ts=1734829824 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jack Gorman / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>We implored Texas earlier in the week to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161279" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161279">run the dang ball on Clemson</a>. Whew buddy, did Steve Sarkisian do exactly that Saturday.</p><p>The Longhorns coach once again showed he's one of the sport's best play-callers, calling an eye-popping 48 rushing plays that resulted in 292 yards and four touchdowns.</p><p>How rare is it for Texas to run the ball 48 times? The Longhorns rank 63rd in attempts per game with 36. Only Army and Air Force topped 48 rushing attempts per contest this season, and they both employ triple-option attacks. Clearly, Sarkisian saw a massive mismatch with Clemson's run defense and repeatedly took advantage. The main benefactors were Jaydon Blue and Quintrevion Wisner, who combined for 256 yards rushing and four touchdowns.</p><p>Texas' dominant ground game limited the number of times the offense had to lean on Quinn Ewers, which is a very productive strategy for the Longhorns. His 24 passing attempts were the lowest of the season against Power conference competition.</p><p>Ewers is certainly talented but is now up to 10 interceptions this season after another one versus Clemson. The Longhorns arguably possess the country's best defense; it's virtually impossible to consistently drive down the field against them. Avoiding turnovers ensures the opposition won't have the benefit of a short field.</p><p>Texas' blueprint to progress through the bracket is clear: Run the ball, avoid turnovers, and let the defense dominate. Arizona State knows it's coming in the Peach Bowl. Let's see if the Sun Devils can do something to alter what seems like the inevitable.</p><h3>Ohio State hits the easy button</h3><p>The biggest easy button in college football might belong to Ohio State with Jeremiah Smith. The true freshman receiver is arguably the biggest offensive weapon in the country not named Ashton Jeanty, which is what made the Buckeyes' decision not to throw him the ball in the final 25 minutes of their loss to Michigan even more baffling. However, Ohio State rectified that issue in a big way Saturday, and, not surprisingly, the school cruised to victory.</p><p>Smith hauled in six catches for 103 yards and two touchdowns in a 42-17 blowout win over Tennessee. Will Howard had his most impactful game as a Buckeye, completing 24 of 29 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns. Ryan Day and Chip Kelly seemed very content to let Howard open it up and throw from the jump - a strategy that promptly led to a 21-0 lead. With the passing attack opening up lanes in the run game, the Buckeyes comfortably moved the ball for 150 yards on the ground and four touchdowns.</p><p>Ohio State's defense had no interest in this being close, relentlessly pressuring Nico Iamaleava from the first play of the night. Four sacks, six tackles for loss, and countless pressures later, and the Vols barely topped the 100-yard passing mark in the game. That type of performance left zero questions about whether the Buckeyes' defense is good enough to win the national title.</p><p>The win sends Ohio State west for another battle against Oregon after the two played arguably the game of the year in October. Smith had nine catches for 100 yards and a score in the first edition. Don't be shocked if those numbers increase on New Year's Day.</p><h3>SMU still deserved to be there</h3><p>First off, let's pour one out for the wealthy SMU donors whose private jets were diverted from State College to Williamsport, forcing them to shuttle a bus to Beaver Stadium and arrive an hour late. Hopefully that party bus was rocking because the game was essentially over by the time they arrived.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Several jets carrying SMU donors were diverted from the State College airport to Williamsport. They’re in a shuttle (party bus!) en route to the game &amp; will arrive an hour after kick.<br><br>Photo by donor Bill Armstrong (bottom left). There's Craig James on right, drink cup raised. <a href="https://t.co/p8zyL8EXAg">pic.twitter.com/p8zyL8EXAg</a></p>— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) <a href="https://twitter.com/RossDellenger/status/1870527953962213496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Fair or unfair, the Mustangs got the Indiana treatment throughout the game as social media exploded with complaints over their inclusion in the CFP as an at-large team. We can debate forever over whether Alabama, Miami, or Ole Miss is better than SMU - that's exactly what those fanbases will do - but this game shouldn't change how you feel about the Mustangs' inclusion.</p><p>It's fine if you don't think an 11-2 team that lost its conference championship and had zero wins over AP top-20 opponents should make the CFP. But that resume also describes the Nittany Lions, who just beat the Mustangs by 28.</p><p>The playoff has largely yielded blowouts, whether it's four teams playing or 12. Twelve of the 20 previous CFP semifinals were decided by at least 14 points, yet most of the losing teams were rarely told that they shouldn't have been involved.</p><h3>Tigers are who we thought they were</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761769/cropped_GettyImages-2191001048.jpg?ts=1734833798" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761769/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191001048.jpg?ts=1734833798 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761769/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191001048.jpg?ts=1734833798 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761769/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191001048.jpg?ts=1734833798 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761769/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191001048.jpg?ts=1734833798 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761769/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191001048.jpg?ts=1734833798 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Tim Warner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Insert Denny Green's classic clip yelling, "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWmQbk5h86w">The Bears are who we thought they were</a>," and swap the animal for a Tiger. That's what the college football world should be yelling about Clemson after Saturday's loss to Texas.</p><p>The Tigers were undoubtedly one of the country's top programs the majority of the past decade. Dabo Swinney's outfit remains very good in 2024, but Texas supplied the latest evidence that Clemson is no longer elite.</p><p>The Tigers found themselves in Austin playing a CFP game largely because Miami gagged away a bid with a shocking season-ending loss to Syracuse. Credit should be given to Swinney and Clemson for upsetting SMU in the ACC title game to grab the automatic berth, but the Mustangs showed Saturday that they also aren't among the country's best teams.</p><p>Clemson has now dropped all three of its games against the SEC this season by a combined score of 89-44. The Tigers lost badly to both Georgia and Texas, while South Carolina won at Death Valley on a late touchdown.</p><p>The most jarring drop-off has been defensively, where Clemson used to rank among the nation's best. The three SEC teams ran all over the Tigers, averaging an outrageous 242 yards per game. That number would be third worst in the nation across an entire season.</p><p>Clemson will remain one of the top ACC teams next season with Florida State dropping off and Miami losing Cam Ward to the NFL. The Tigers could very well be in the CFP once again with a conference champion berth. However, we shouldn't expect them to be a serious player in the tournament until we see otherwise.</p><h3>Tennessee needs help for Nico</h3><p>Tennessee enters the offseason with one major objective: do everything it can to improve the passing game. That means weapons at receiver and an upgraded offensive line to protect Nico Iamaleava. The Volunteers' passing attack again looked awful against a top opponent, with Iamaleava barely topping 100 yards on the night.</p><p>Iamaleava spent most of the game running for his life from a vicious Ohio State pass rush. His receivers did very little to help him when he had time to throw, recording countless drops. It was clear Iamaleava was gun-shy by the third quarter, as he opted to tuck and run on multiple occasions instead of airing it out.</p><p>Tennessee suffered three losses and a narrow win over Alabama in its four toughest games this season. During that stretch, Iamaleava completed just 54% of his throws and averaged 155 yards passing per game. That's not good enough to compete on the national level.</p><p>Josh Heupel's most successful offensive seasons with the Volunteers had the offense blowing up scoreboards thanks largely to explosive receivers such as Jalin Hyatt and Cedric Tillman. Bringing in talent like that to help Iamaleava is a must for next season.</p>

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CFB Wrap-up: Takeaways from Saturday's CFP games

Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti defended his decision to punt from Notre Dame territory despite ...

<p>Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti defended his decision to punt from Notre Dame territory despite trailing by 17 in the fourth quarter in the Hoosiers' College Football Playoff loss Friday.</p><p>Down 20-3 and having just blocked a Notre Dame field-goal attempt, Cignetti opted to punt on fourth down from the Fighting Irish 48-yard line with 12 minutes to play instead of going for it to try to keep the drive rolling.</p><p>He was frank following the game when asked about the decision, citing the struggling offense as his reason for the call.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I didn't want to punt, but we were doing nothing on offense. And our defense was fighting. That was the only positive that I could draw was that our defense was still fighting, because offense was doing nothing." Cignetti said after the game, per <a href="https://x.com/awfulannouncing/status/1870338055841939835">Awful Announcing</a>. "I didn't want to go fourth-and-10, you're just wishing and hoping, you have nothing to base it on that you can convert fourth-and-10 at that point.</p><p>"There's still time if you punt to win the game. So that was the reason why. I didn't want to do it, but I felt like it was the best move."</p><p>While many questioned the choice, there's no debate the offense looked dreadful up until that point for Indiana. That was the team's third drive in the second half, with the offense totaling 5 yards on 11 plays over that span.</p><p>It was a long night for Indiana, with Notre Dame beating the Hoosiers comfortably in South Bend. While the 27-17 scoreline doesn't look terrible for the visitors, two touchdowns in the final minutes hide the reality that the Hoosiers looked overmatched throughout the affair.</p><p>The Hoosiers moved the ball well against a prevent defense in the dying minutes, finding the end zone twice after putting up a total of 152 yards over the first 55 minutes of game action.</p>

SOUTH BEND, IN - DECEMBER 20: Indiana Hoosiers coach Curt Cignetti yells at a referee during a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on December 20, 2024, during the CFP First Round playoff game at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana.

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Cignetti explains late punt: 'Offense was doing nothing'

The first game of the 12-team College Football Playoff is officially in the books, with Notre Dam...

<p>The first game of the 12-team College Football Playoff is officially in the books, with Notre Dame dominating Indiana at home to start the opening round.</p><p>The contest was rarely in doubt from the jump, with the 27-17 final actually flattering to the Hoosiers thanks to a pair of touchdowns in the dying minutes with the game out of hand.</p><p>Here are three things we learned from Friday's playoff opener:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Notre Dame's balance is a problem</h3><p>If you just learned this Friday, then you need to find NBC on the dial and watch Notre Dame more often during the regular season. Outside of undefeated Oregon, the Fighting Irish have been the best team in the country since Week 2. They've essentially steamrolled all comers on the schedule, and Indiana was no exception despite the added stakes of a playoff game.</p><p>The Hoosiers entered as the nation's second-ranked run defense, with 137 yards the most they've allowed in a game this season. Notre Dame came within six yards of hitting that total ... <em>in the first quarter.</em><strong><em> </em></strong>The final number was 193 yards on a gaudy 5.7 per rush.</p><p>Riley Leonard is sometimes questioned as a passer, but the senior quarterback was very efficient after his opening toss of the night was a tipped interception. He finished with 201 yards through the air and added a touchdown on the ground. If Notre Dame is going to make a deep playoff run, Leonard will need to be at the forefront. He showed Friday that he's more than up for that challenge.</p><p>The balanced attack on offense should give the Irish plenty of confidence heading into the quarterfinal against a Georgia team without quarterback Carson Beck.</p><h3>Indiana's kryptonite: Top defensive units</h3><p>Indiana coach Curt Cignetti wasn't totally wrong when he dropped this banger on College GameDay before the contest; he was just a little confused.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"We don't just beat Top 25 teams, we beat the s--- out of them." <br><br>Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti didn't hold back on the Hoosiers' success this season 😤 <a href="https://t.co/M4FGhv6Xsy">pic.twitter.com/M4FGhv6Xsy</a></p>— College GameDay (@CollegeGameDay) <a href="https://twitter.com/CollegeGameDay/status/1870246917596135493?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>There's no question that Indiana absolutely "beat the shit" out of a group of teams this season, but not those with a number beside their name. The man deserves some props for trying - with a straight face, no less - to wedge Nebraska in as a ranked win for being the final team in the Week 9 coaches poll, but the Cornhuskers were nowhere to be found in any poll by the end of the year.</p><p>The collection of teams that Indiana did "beat the shit" out of this season was anybody without a top-25 defense. Indiana faced 10 of those in 13 games on the schedule and beat the brakes off all 10. The Hoosiers averaged an eye-popping 48.5 points and 487 yards of total offense in those games. The drop-off versus top-25 defensive units is outrageous - just 15.6 points and 225 yards per game.</p><p>There's no question Cignetti maximized his team's potential and delivered an all-time season with Indiana. He opened his tenure by grabbing a microphone and telling a packed basketball stadium that "<a href="https://x.com/JeffRabjohns/status/1730744811659882572">Purdue sucks ... but so does Michigan and Ohio State</a>" and topped that later with the epic quote, "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNeXIVH5t08">I win. Google me</a>."</p><p>However, their performances against top teams should temper expectations for the Hoosiers if the schedule doesn't fall favorably in future years.</p><h3>Bloated conferences cause problems</h3><p>The funniest thing about Big Ten realignment is that it would be closer for Rutgers to fly to Iceland than to a game in Washington. However, the most serious problem might just be the scheduling issues that arise once these leagues hit 16 teams. Indiana is an excellent example of what can happen with the perfect storm that comes from removing divisions and randomizing schedules. The Hoosiers played only two teams in the top half of the Big Ten: a narrow 20-15 win over Michigan and a 38-15 loss at Ohio State. It's the only two games the Hoosiers didn't win by at least 14 points this regular season.</p><p>While Indiana's loss Friday brought this issue to the forefront for the Big Ten, it's not the only conference experiencing this unintended consequence of expansion. Texas played two regular-season games against top-nine teams in the SEC this year - a home loss to Georgia and a road win at unranked Texas A&amp;M. The Longhorns followed that up with another loss to the Bulldogs in the SEC title game. They now host a playoff game Saturday with zero wins over currently ranked teams and just one victory over a program in the top half of the league.</p><p>Balancing a schedule can be damn near impossible in college football given the volatility of teams on a year-to-year basis. In a unique twist, both Indiana and Texas had defending national champion Michigan on the schedule this year and registered wins over the Wolverines. That would be a ranked victory most years, but Michigan struggled to a 7-5 record and remains unranked.</p><p>It would have been cruel to leave Indiana out of the playoff after the Hoosiers ran over almost everybody on the schedule. However, Friday's result should put an added emphasis on strength of schedule for the committee in subsequent years.</p>

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3 things we learned from Notre Dame-Indiana

Picking a bracket in a four-team College Football Playoff was a very quick exercise, but the adve...

<p>Picking a bracket in a four-team College Football Playoff was a very quick exercise, but the advent of the 12-team field has lent itself to a much more intriguing process for the postseason.</p><p>The importance of seeding will be on display immediately with a legitimate argument to be made that No. 6 Penn State has an easier path to the title game than No. 1 Oregon.</p><p>That factored immensely into our bracket picks with a highly entertaining title game awaiting at the end of the line.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>First round</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758889/cropped_GettyImages-2187651609.jpg?ts=1733345070" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758889/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187651609.jpg?ts=1733345070 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758889/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187651609.jpg?ts=1733345070 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758889/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187651609.jpg?ts=1733345070 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758889/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187651609.jpg?ts=1733345070 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758889/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187651609.jpg?ts=1733345070 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Slitz / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>No. 5 Texas over No. 12 Clemson</strong></p><p>Clemson actually has something on its resume that Texas doesn't heading into Saturday - a win over a team currently ranked in the top 25. However, the Tigers have faced SEC competition twice this year and lost both times by a 51-17 margin. It's tough to see that changing unless the Longhorns gift the visitors a number of turnovers.</p><p><strong>No. 6 Penn State over No. 11 SMU</strong></p><p>SMU is the 11-seed but found itself ranked No. 10 in the final CFP rankings. That means you are going to hear the stat that James Franklin is 3-19 against top-10 teams in his time at Penn State repeatedly on Saturday. There's never been a better time - or situation - for Franklin to get win No. 4 with the Nittany Lions sitting as 8.5-point favorites. Drew Allar feasts on the SMU defense after Cade Klubnik threw for 262 yards and four touchdowns in the ACC title game.</p><p><strong>No. 7 Notre Dame over No. 10 Indiana</strong></p><p>Indiana is the Cinderella team in the opening round and is rewarded with an in-state matchup against Notre Dame. The Hoosiers looked to be a tier below Ohio State in the penultimate week of the season and will face a similar talent discrepancy against the Irish. Expect Curt Cignetti to make some adjustments and keep things interesting for much longer than Notre Dame wants in this one. However, the Irish's depth eventually pays off in the home win.</p><p><strong>No. 9 Tennessee over No. 8 Ohio State</strong></p><p>Any good tournament sees some early upsets, and this one comes in the final game of the opening round in Columbus. The horrific vibes around the Ohio State program remain as Tennessee uses the Michigan blueprint to run the ball, play great defense, and hand the Buckeyes a second consecutive loss.</p><h3>Quarterfinals</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745142/cropped_GettyImages-2172024194.jpg?ts=1726355122" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745142/w220xh124_GettyImages-2172024194.jpg?ts=1726355122 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745142/w320xh180_GettyImages-2172024194.jpg?ts=1726355122 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745142/w640xh360_GettyImages-2172024194.jpg?ts=1726355122 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745142/w768xh432_GettyImages-2172024194.jpg?ts=1726355122 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745142/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2172024194.jpg?ts=1726355122 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>No. 7 Notre Dame over No. 2 Georgia</strong></p><p>The last update on Carson Beck had the senior quarterback seeking a second opinion on his arm injury. That usually doesn't happen just to confirm good news, so it's likely Gunner Stockton will be the Georgia quarterback versus Notre Dame. An untested passer against the Irish is not a fair fight as the defense tops the nation with five pick-6s on the season. It seems crazy that a team with a home loss to Northern Illinois would be in the CFP semis, but that's how the world will look as we ring in 2025.</p><p><strong>No. 1 Oregon over No. 9 Tennessee</strong></p><p>Oregon's multitude of weapons eventually breaks down the Tennessee defense, and the Vols can't keep up with the nation's only undefeated team. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel shines in his 64th collegiate game with the man who coached him in his first - Josh Heupel - on the other sideline.</p><p><strong>No. 5 Texas over No. 4 Arizona State</strong></p><p>Texas is a team with a couple of flaws but the borderline impenetrable defense isn't one of them. The Longhorns slow down Cam Skattebo and Arizona State can't come up with a Plan B on offense. Steve Sarkisian's outfit returns to the CFP semis for the second straight year with another victory.</p><p><strong>No. 6 Penn State over No. 3 Boise State</strong></p><p>Boise State's Ashton Jeanty needs just 131 yards to break Barry Sanders' all-time single-season rushing record. The Nittany Lions allowed just one 100-yard rusher this season with Woody Marks hitting 111 for USC. Something has to give in this one with a CFP semifinal spot on the line. Our money is on the defense standing tall once again and forcing someone other than Jeanty to win it for the Broncos. Spoiler alert: They won't.</p><h3>Semifinals </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749673/cropped_GettyImages-2178157453.jpg?ts=1728788520" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749673/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178157453.jpg?ts=1728788520 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749673/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178157453.jpg?ts=1728788520 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749673/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178157453.jpg?ts=1728788520 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749673/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178157453.jpg?ts=1728788520 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749673/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178157453.jpg?ts=1728788520 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alika Jenner / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>No. 1 Oregon over No. 5 Texas</strong></p><p>After a comfortable two-game stretch versus Clemson and Arizona State, Texas gets shocked back to life by the mighty Ducks. The Longhorns' defense has thrived all season but has yet to face an offense with Oregon's weapons. Gabriel spreads it around to hand Texas a semifinal loss for the second season in a row.</p><p><strong>No. 6 Penn State over No. 7 Notre Dame</strong></p><p>Many will paint this as a matchup of a coach who struggles against top opponents versus one with some shocking losses as a heavy favorite. It's probably more important that Penn State's top-20 run game gets a favorable matchup in Notre Dame's 51st-ranked rush defense. That mismatch keeps the chains moving and puts the Nittany Lions in the championship game.</p><h3>National title game</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761381/cropped_GettyImages-2188513102.jpg?ts=1734591477" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761381/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188513102.jpg?ts=1734591477 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761381/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188513102.jpg?ts=1734591477 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761381/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188513102.jpg?ts=1734591477 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761381/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188513102.jpg?ts=1734591477 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761381/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188513102.jpg?ts=1734591477 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>No. 6 Penn State over No. 1 Oregon</strong></p><p>If the rematch is anything like the Big Ten title game, we are in for a banger of a national championship tilt. Oregon took the first battle largely thanks to Tez Johnson's incredible 11-catch performance for 181 yards. Penn State may have lost, but the Nittany Lions exposed a weakness by gashing the Ducks for an eye-popping 8.3 yards per rush. The rushing attack putting up those numbers again seems more sustainable than Johnson having another career-best game. Freed from the gauntlet of the former Big Ten East, Penn State wins its first national title since 1986.</p>

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CFP picks: Predictions for how the bracket unfolds

The bracket chatter is over, the field is set, and, finally, the initial 12-team College Football...

<p>The bracket chatter is over, the field is set, and, finally, the initial 12-team College Football Playoff has arrived.</p><p>Each of the better seeds is hosting this weekend and, while every home team is favored, this season's proven that anybody - except maybe Oregon - is capable of an upset.</p><p>Here's one key for each team in action in the first round.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Texas: Run the dang ball</h3><p>One can choose their own adventure when trying to dissect Texas' first season in the SEC. The good is a 10-2 record, a berth in the conference title game, and the No. 5 seed in the CFP. The bad comes when you look for the best win over a currently-ranked opponent on the schedule - there isn't one. </p><p>Texas' pair of losses to Georgia also represent the only two matchups with a ranked team on the schedule. One of the common denominators in the defeats is quarterback Quinn Ewers' struggles. The Bulldogs held Ewers to just 6.39 yards per attempt through the air over two games, intercepting him three times. Ewers averaged 8 yards per pass in the other nine games on the schedule.</p><p>The game plan against Clemson is simple: Feed Quintrevion Wisner, Jaydon Blue, and whoever else wants carries, keep Ewers' workload to a minimum, and punch a ticket to the quarterfinals.</p><h3>Penn State: Outside weapon steps up</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761197/cropped_GettyImages-2188512760.jpg?ts=1734489791" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761197/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188512760.jpg?ts=1734489791 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761197/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188512760.jpg?ts=1734489791 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761197/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188512760.jpg?ts=1734489791 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761197/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188512760.jpg?ts=1734489791 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761197/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188512760.jpg?ts=1734489791 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The best run defense on the Beaver Stadium field on Saturday won't belong to the home team. The Nittany Lions boast a very solid defense that receives plenty of attention, but SMU ranks third nationally in stopping the run. If the Mustangs slow<em><strong> </strong></em>the dynamic duo of Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen, can the receivers move the offense?</p><p>Yes, the nation's top tight end, Tyler Warren, plays for Penn State and is the focal point of the passing attack. But a bulk of the game plan will certainly be based on limiting Warren's impact and forcing signal-caller Drew Allar to look elsewhere.</p><p>Penn State hasn't had a receiver gain more than 60 yards since Nov. 9th, and Warren has led the team in the last four outings. Harrison Wallace III or Omari Evans will likely need to contribute in a big way if the team is going to make a CFP run.</p><h3>Notre Dame: Keep Indiana down early</h3><p>Notre Dame needs to fly out of the gates on Friday in the CFP opener against Indiana, and it's vital the stadium is rocking from the jump. The Hoosiers have made a living dominating teams in the opening frame: They rank first nationally among Power Conference teams in first-quarter defense and 13th in offense. Even in Indiana's toughest tests of the season, against both Michigan and Ohio State, the team scored opening-quarter touchdowns.</p><p>If Notre Dame can avoid the early score, the Irish can look to contests against the Wolverines and Buckeyes for inspiration. The Hoosiers dominated every other opponent with a whopping 3.97 points per possession, but Ohio State and Michigan held them to just 1.52. Things will be significantly less stressful for coach Marcus Freeman if the Irish can come out flying.</p><h3>Ohio State: Get that swagger back</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754444/cropped_GettyImages-2183884998.jpg?ts=1731182794" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754444/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183884998.jpg?ts=1731182794 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754444/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183884998.jpg?ts=1731182794 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754444/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183884998.jpg?ts=1731182794 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754444/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183884998.jpg?ts=1731182794 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754444/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183884998.jpg?ts=1731182794 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Jackson / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The last time we saw Ohio State take the field, the Buckeyes:</p><ul>
<li>Lost at home to Michigan as 23-point favorites, failing to score in the second half or get a first down in the 4th quarter</li>
<li>Fought after the game when the Wolverines planted a flag on the field</li>
<li>Saw an Ohio state representative propose a bill to make it a felony for opposition to plant a flag in the middle of Ohio Stadium</li>
</ul><p>It's been a long couple of weeks for Ohio State and Ryan Day - and that'll turn into a torturous offseason if they can't beat Tennessee on Saturday at home. Day, Chip Kelly and the offense seemed more determined to establish the Buckeyes as the more physically dominant team versus Michigan instead of exploiting the clear mismatch in the passing game. If they try that again versus the Volunteers' fourth-ranked rush defense, it's going to be a long night in front of 100,000 angry fans.</p><p>Ohio State is blessed with a wide receiver group that features Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss. Despite that core, Day and Kelly opted to repeatedly run between the tackles on Michigan's dominant defensive interior in the loss. The Buckeyes need to look themselves in the mirror, release the embarrassment of riches they have at wide receiver, and put the pedal to the metal against the Vols.</p><h3>Tennessee: Muck it up at Ohio State</h3><p>Plenty of jokes were made about a southern team traveling north to play in freezing temperatures, but Tennessee's makeup is essentially perfect for cold-weather football. The Volunteers feature one of the sport's top running backs, Dylan Sampson, and an outstanding defense that ranks fourth in the nation. Head coach Josh Heupel doesn't need to look far to see how that tracks at Ohio Stadium - that's essentially the blueprint Michigan followed in its stunning upset to end the campaign.</p><p>The Volunteers need to make this a rock fight of sorts - the outside weapons on offense don't stack up with the fleet of thoroughbreds the Buckeyes trot out. Nico Iamaleava has shown flashes at times, but the young quarterback will be in tough against the nation's eighth-best defense in terms of pressure.</p><h3>Indiana: Make Notre Dame play its best</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755519/cropped_GettyImages-2176985684.jpg?ts=1731695730" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755519/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176985684.jpg?ts=1731695730 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755519/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176985684.jpg?ts=1731695730 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755519/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176985684.jpg?ts=1731695730 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755519/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176985684.jpg?ts=1731695730 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/755519/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176985684.jpg?ts=1731695730 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Reaves / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The Hoosiers cannot gift the Irish points as they did at Ohio State earlier this season.</p><p>Indiana hung around pretty well against the Buckeyes in the Week 13 matchup. Then a blocked punt led to an easy score, and a 79-yard punt return resulted in an Ohio State touchdown, flipping a close game into a blowout.</p><p>The talent gap between the two teams leans heavily toward Notre Dame and, if both play their best, the Irish will emerge victorious. However, if the Hoosiers can capitalize on any and all mistakes from Freeman's outfit, an upset could be in the cards.</p><h3>SMU: Hit on explosive plays</h3><p>SMU probably isn't built to go blow-for-blow with Penn State and sustain long drives in the cold of Beaver Stadium and its 100,000 screaming fans. It'll likely take the Mustangs some explosive plays to pull off a shocking upset - something they <em>are</em> built for, thanks to electric quarterback Kevin Jennings.</p><p>SMU ranks seventh in the nation in plays over 20 yards and 10th in plays over 30. Jenning's dual-threat capabilities should keep the Nittany Lions' defense guessing - he can choose to be either a runner or a passer each play. While Penn State's defense is undoubtedly one of the top units in the country, it is prone to a letdown or two, ranking outside the top 50 nationally in explosive plays allowed.</p><h3>Clemson: Force turnovers</h3><p>It's going to be incredibly difficult for Clemson to put up many points against the incredible Texas defense, arguably the best unit of all the playoff teams. It also isn't overly encouraging that the Tigers' offense scored just 17 combined points in two games against SEC competition this year. That's going to put the onus on the defense to flip the game with a coach's best friend: turnovers.</p><p>The Tigers rank inside the top 15 nationally in both fumbles forced and interceptions on the campaign. The Longhorns' offense isn't shy about turning the ball over, either - only seven teams have lost more fumbles than Texas this season, and Quinn Ewers has carded nine interceptions. Clemson needs to force turnovers and take advantage of short fields to put points on the board in Austin on Saturday.</p>

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1 key for each team in CFP's opening round

Chalk one up for the PGA TOUR over LIV Golf after Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler scored a dom...

<p>Chalk one up for the PGA TOUR over LIV Golf after Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler scored a dominant win over Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka on Tuesday night at the Crypto.com Showdown.</p><p>McIlroy and Scheffler raced out of the gates at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas to win both of the six-hole team sessions and take a 2-0 lead to the singles matches. McIlroy shone brightest from the jump, birdieing his opening two holes to give the PGA TOUR side the early edge.</p><p>If McIlroy's first two holes were the appetizer, consider his performance on the par-5 fourth the main course. With DeChambeau sitting just six feet away for eagle, the World No. 3 somehow poured in a deep putt to put all the pressure on the U.S. Open champion to match. DeChambeau pulled his attempt past the hole on the left to secure the victory for the PGA TOUR in the opening six-hole session.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Unfortunately, that was a sign of things to come for the LIV duo of Koepka and DeChambeau, with neither able to get anything going in either team format. Koepka struggled off the tee in alternate shot, putting his partner in tricky situations throughout. With the PGA TOUR pair flashing steady form, it wasn't much of a contest leading up to singles.</p><p>Scheffler and McIlroy needed just a half-point from the two singles contests to secure the overall victory, and the World No. 1 supplied that with two holes to play in his head-to-head matchup with Koepka. McIlroy was also leading in his battle with DeChambeau to give the PGA TOUR the victory or lead in all four formats.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 17: Scottie Scheffler (L) and Rory McIlroy of the PGA Tour talk during The Showdown: McIlroy and Scheffler v DeChambeau and Koepka at Shadow Creek Golf Course on December 17, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Rory, Scottie dominate Brooks, Bryson in the Showdown

The 2024 Heisman Trophy came down to the best running back season since 1988 and the best two-way...

<p>The 2024 Heisman Trophy came down to the best running back season since 1988 and the best two-way performance since college football moved to the two-platoon system early in the 1960s.</p><p>In the end, voters favored the all-around brilliance of Colorado cornerback and wide receiver <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/179519">Travis Hunter</a> over Boise State running back <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172507">Ashton Jeanty</a>'s absurd production. The quarterback duo of Miami's <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/152938">Cam Ward</a> and Oregon's <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/138036">Dillon Gabriel</a> rounded out the four finalists for the award recognizing college football's top player.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>1st-place votes</th>
<th>Total points </th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Travis Hunter</td>
<td> 552</td>
<td> 2231 </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ashton Jeanty</td>
<td> 309</td>
<td> 2017 </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dillon Gabriel</td>
<td> 24</td>
<td> 516 </td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cam Ward</td>
<td> 6</td>
<td> 229 </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Saturday's announcement made the Colorado star the first <em>primarily</em> defensive player to win the award since Charles Woodson in 1997. Primarily is used loosely in this case, as Hunter played 713 snaps on defense this season, only slightly more than his 709 on offense.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Hunter was a superstar regardless of what unit was on the field, ranking second in the nation with 14 touchdown catches, fifth with 92 total catches, and sixth in receiving yards with 1,152. The former five-star recruit turned in highlight-reel grabs on the regular and was the most electric offensive player on the No. 23 Buffaloes ... and then he went over to play defense.</p><p>The other three Heisman finalists took a much-deserved rest when the defense hit the field, but Hunter turned into an All-American candidate at a second position. His <a href="https://www.pff.com/college/grades/position/cb">91.2 coverage grade by PFF</a> ranked first nationally among all corners and his four interceptions tied for fourth at the position among Power 4 conference players. Those impressive numbers came despite the fact he was often matched up against the opposition's top weapon.</p><p>While the other three finalists would be strong candidates in any other season, Hunter's massive role in whether or not his team had the ball was the deciding factor.</p><p>Hunter's ability as a true unicorn in the sport is the only thing that kept Jeanty from being Boise State's first Heisman winner. It's borderline impossible to put up a better statistical season than the junior star turned in. He walked off the field eight days ago after the Mountain West Conference title victory just 131 yards shy of Barry Sanders' all-time record of 2,628 rushing yards in a single season.</p><p>His total of 2,497 rushing yards this season is a comical 831 more than the second-best runner, but his ability to break tackles reveals the most absurd stat of the season: Jeanty rushed for more yards after contact (1,889) than 61 teams and every player in the country rushed for in total.</p><p>Gabriel didn't miss a beat moving from Oklahoma to Oregon, somehow keeping the Ducks' offense humming despite the loss of NFL first-round quarterback <a href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199735">Bo Nix</a> in the offseason. Gabriel finished eighth in the nation in touchdown passes and passing yards, and his six interceptions on the year ranked second among quarterbacks with more than 400 attempts. However, the most important statistic for Gabriel is the 13-0 record he helped Oregon compile as it snatched the No. 1 seed for the CFP.</p><p>Ward's single season with Miami was full of explosive highlights as the Washington State transfer led the nation's top offense to a 10-2 mark. Ward topped all players in touchdown passes with 36 and finished second to Syracuse's <a href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/161696">Kyle McCord</a> for passing yards. While the Hurricanes fell short of the CFP, the blame lays almost solely on the woeful defense. Ward won't be around in the playoff, but don't be shocked if he's the first quarterback taken in April's NFL draft.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - DECEMBER 14: Travis Hunter University of Colorado cornerback/wide receiver poses with the Trophy during the Heisman Trophy press conference at the Marriott Marquis on December 14, 2024 in New York, New York.

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Travis Hunter wins 2024 Heisman Trophy

Alabama's exclusion from the first edition of the 12-team College Football Playoff could affect h...

<p>Alabama's exclusion from the first edition of the 12-team College Football Playoff could affect how the program builds its schedule moving forward.</p><p>The 9-3 Crimson Tide are on the outside looking in, with the committee selecting 11-2 SMU as the final at-large berth Sunday.</p><p>While the Mustangs had two more wins than Kalen DeBoer's team, the strength of schedule between the two programs wasn't close. Alabama held the 16th-ranked strength of schedule nationally, while SMU sat 60th. Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne said the committee not putting more weight on strength of schedule will affect the program's approach.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"We have said that we would need to see how strength of schedule would be evaluated by the CFP," Byrne wrote in a <a href="https://x.com/Greg_Byrne/status/1865865124201836785">post on X</a>. "With this outcome, we will need to assess how many (Power 4) nonconference games make sense in the future to put us in the best position to participate in the CFP. That is not good for college football."</p><p>Alabama went 4-0 in its nonconference schedule and has no say in how the SEC slate breaks down each year. The main reason the Crimson Tide aren't in the playoff is a 5-3 record in conference play, with a shocking 24-3 loss to a 6-6 Oklahoma team ultimately being the deciding factor. That was the lowest point total in a game by an Alabama team since 2004. That loss was the third in a season that also featured the Crimson Tide's first defeat to Vanderbilt since 1984.</p><p>The SEC only plays eight league games, while other top conferences put nine on the schedule. Ohio State is entering the playoff with a nonconference schedule that featured two MAC teams and a C-USA opponent, but the ninth Big Ten game gave the Buckeyes the same number of Power 4 contests as the Crimson Tide.</p><p>Alabama joined Ole Miss and South Carolina as SEC teams just outside the CFP field. The three combined for a perfect 12-0 nonconference record this season while going 15-9 in conference.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 30: Athletic director Greg Byrne of the Alabama Crimson Tide cuts the net after the Alabama Crimson Tide defeated the Clemson Tigers 89-82 in the Elite 8 round of the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Crypto.com Arena on March 30, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

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Alabama AD suggests CFP snub will impact schedule: 'Not good for CFB'

With the 2024 regular season officially over, it's time for postseason college football action.  ...

<p>With the 2024 regular season officially over, it's time for postseason college football action.</p><p>The full slate of 41 bowl games starts Dec. 14 and includes the CFP quarterfinals and semifinals. The first-round playoff games will take place Dec. 20 and 21st with the national title contest slated for Jan. 20 in Atlanta.</p><p>Here's the full list of matchups for bowl season.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>DATE</th>
<th>BOWL</th>
<th>TEAM 1</th>
<th>TEAM 2</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 14</td>
<td>Salute to Veterans Bowl</td>
<td>South Alabama</td>
<td>Western Michigan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 17</td>
<td>Frisco Bowl</td>
<td>West Virginia</td>
<td>Memphis</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 18</td>
<td>Boca Raton Bowl</td>
<td>Western Kentucky</td>
<td>James Madison</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 18</td>
<td>LA Bowl</td>
<td>Cal</td>
<td>UNLV</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 19</td>
<td>New Orleans Bowl</td>
<td>Georgia Southern</td>
<td>Sam Houston</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 20</td>
<td>CureBowl</td>
<td>Ohio</td>
<td>Jacksonville State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 20</td>
<td>Gasparilla Bowl</td>
<td>Florida</td>
<td>Tulane</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 20</td>
<td>CFP 1st round</td>
<td>Notre Dame</td>
<td>Indiana</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 21</td>
<td>CFP 1st round</td>
<td>Penn State</td>
<td>SMU</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 21</td>
<td>CFP 1st round</td>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>Clemson</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 21</td>
<td>CFP 1st round</td>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>Tennessee</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 23</td>
<td>Myrtle Beach Bowl</td>
<td>Coastal Carolina</td>
<td>UTSA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 23</td>
<td>Idaho Potato Bowl</td>
<td>Northern Illinois</td>
<td>Fresno State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 24</td>
<td>Hawaii Bowl</td>
<td>South Florida</td>
<td>San Jose State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 26</td>
<td>GameAbove Sports Bowl</td>
<td>Pitt</td>
<td>Toledo</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 26</td>
<td>Guaranteed Rate Bowl</td>
<td>Rutgers</td>
<td>Kansas State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 26</td>
<td>68 Ventures Bowl</td>
<td>Arkansas State</td>
<td>Bowling Green</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 27</td>
<td>Holiday Bowl</td>
<td>Washington State</td>
<td>Syracuse</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 27</td>
<td>Birmingham Bowl</td>
<td>Vanderbilt</td>
<td>Georgia Tech</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 27</td>
<td>Armed Forces Bowl</td>
<td>Navy</td>
<td>Oklahoma</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 27</td>
<td>Liberty Bowl</td>
<td>Arkansas</td>
<td>Texas Tech</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 27</td>
<td>Las Vegas Bowl</td>
<td>USC</td>
<td>Texas A&amp;M</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>Fenway Bowl</td>
<td>UConn</td>
<td>North Carolina</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>Pinstripe Bowl</td>
<td>Boston College</td>
<td>Nebraska</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>New Mexico Bowl</td>
<td>TCU</td>
<td>Louisiana</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>Pop Tarts Bowl</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>Iowa State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>Arizona Bowl</td>
<td>Miami (Ohio)</td>
<td>Colorado State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>Military Bowl</td>
<td>NC State</td>
<td>East Carolina</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>Alamo Bowl</td>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>Colorado</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 28</td>
<td>Independence Bowl</td>
<td>Army</td>
<td>Marshall</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 30</td>
<td>Music City Bowl</td>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>Iowa</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 31</td>
<td>ReliaQuest Bowl</td>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>Michigan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 31</td>
<td>Sun Bowl</td>
<td>Louisville</td>
<td>Washington</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 31</td>
<td>Citrus Bowl</td>
<td>South Carolina</td>
<td>Illinois</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 31</td>
<td>Texas Bowl</td>
<td>LSU</td>
<td>Baylor</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dec. 31</td>
<td>Fiesta Bowl (CFP QF)</td>
<td>Boise State</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 1</td>
<td>Peach Bowl (CFP QF)</td>
<td>Arizona State</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 1</td>
<td>Rose Bowl (CFP QF)</td>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 1</td>
<td>Sugar Bowl (CFP QF)</td>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 2</td>
<td>Gator Bowl</td>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>Duke</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 3</td>
<td>First Responder Bowl</td>
<td>North Texas</td>
<td>Texas State</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 3</td>
<td>Duke's Mayo Bowl</td>
<td>Minnesota</td>
<td>Virginia Tech</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 4</td>
<td>Bahamas Bowl</td>
<td>Buffalo</td>
<td>Liberty</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 9</td>
<td>Orange Bowl (CFP SF)</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jan. 10</td>
<td>Cotton Bowl (CFP SF)</td>
<td>TBD</td>
<td>TBD</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JULY 26: The Orange Bowl Trophy during the Big Ten Conference Media Days on July 26, 2023 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN

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CFB Bowl Tracker: See where your team is headed for postseason play

The 12 teams are set and the expanded College Football Playoff will begin Dec. 20 when Notre Dame...

<p>The 12 teams are set and the expanded College Football Playoff will begin Dec. 20 when Notre Dame hosts Indiana in South Bend.</p><p>While there was plenty of late drama Saturday in the SEC, ACC, and Big Ten title games, the only question entering the final rankings was whether SMU or Alabama would get the final at-large place.</p><p>The committee opted for the ACC finalist, making the Mustangs clear winners and the Crimson Tide losers.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's the full list from Sunday's announcement show.</p><h3>Winner: Texas</h3><p>Texas is a winner even though the Longhorns haven't beaten a current top-25 opponent this season. Steve Sarkisian's outfit has clearly put some sort of trance on the committee - it was deemed the No. 5 seed despite being 0-2 against currently ranked teams this year, with both losses coming against Georgia. The Bulldogs won by 15 in Texas in October and claimed an overtime defeat despite playing the entire second half without Carson Beck.</p><p>Regardless, Texas is the highest seed playing in the opening round and hosts a Clemson team that lost both its games to SEC opponents this year by a combined 51-17 margin. Should the Longhorns win, they'll advance to face the Big 12 champion Arizona State, a team the committee didn't deem worthy of a top 10 ranking even though it won a power conference title.</p><p>Let's just say the Longhorns' path to the CFP semi is more than "alright, alright, alright."</p><h3>Loser: Alabama</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747474/cropped_GettyImages-2175374669.jpg?ts=1727580295" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747474/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175374669.jpg?ts=1727580295 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747474/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175374669.jpg?ts=1727580295 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747474/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175374669.jpg?ts=1727580295 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747474/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175374669.jpg?ts=1727580295 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747474/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175374669.jpg?ts=1727580295 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Todd Kirkland / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Forgive Alabama fans if they were clearing their Dec. 21 schedule for a road trip for a large portion of Saturday night. The Crimson Tide looked set to steal an at-large bid from SMU as Clemson raced out to a 17-point lead on the Mustangs in the ACC title game. However, SMU rallied in the second half and tied it in the final minute before losing on a dramatic walk-off 56-yard field goal. Even in defeat, the comeback was enough to make the committee deem the Mustangs worthy of a playoff spot over the three-loss Crimson Tide.</p><p>Alabama's schedule is significantly tougher than SMU's, and the Crimson Tide have that sparkling win over Georgia earlier in the campaign. The program's playoff bid was firmly in its own hands heading to Oklahoma in the second-last week of the season, but the Tide laid an all-time egg with a 21-point loss to one of the worst Sooner teams in the last 25 years.</p><p>Nick Saban took the Crimson Tide to eight of the 10 editions of the four-team playoff - remarkable consistency for the nation's best program of that era. Even though the field added eight more teams in Kalen DeBoer's first season in Tuscaloosa, the Tide will be on the outside looking in this time.</p><h3>Winner: Penn State</h3><p>Penn State fell to 1-14 under James Franklin against top-five opposition Saturday, but the loss to Oregon left us feeling significantly better about this version of the Nittany Lions. The offense piled up over 500 total yards and hung 37 points on the country's only undefeated team. That should prove their ability to compete for the national title with anybody in the 12-team field. Their chances improved when the bracket was revealed Sunday as Penn State faces a potential combo of SMU and Boise State to make the semifinal.</p><p>SMU holds an impressive 11-2 record, but that's largely been filled with empty calories from beating unranked teams. While the Nittany Lions boast just one top-25 victory on the campaign, two one-score losses to Oregon and Ohio State show they belong among the nation's top programs.</p><p>Nobody has been able to stop Ashton Jeanty, but Penn State's run defense will be the best the Boise State star has faced all season should they meet in the quarterfinal.</p><h3>Loser: Oregon</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753786/cropped_GettyImages-2180280282.jpg?ts=1730849054" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753786/w220xh124_GettyImages-2180280282.jpg?ts=1730849054 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753786/w320xh180_GettyImages-2180280282.jpg?ts=1730849054 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753786/w640xh360_GettyImages-2180280282.jpg?ts=1730849054 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753786/w768xh432_GettyImages-2180280282.jpg?ts=1730849054 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753786/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2180280282.jpg?ts=1730849054 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Justin Casterline / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Somehow the winner of the Big Ten title game Saturday is a loser Sunday, and the loser of that matchup is a winner. Oregon capped an undefeated campaign - the only one in the country - with a thrilling 45-37 win over Penn State in Indianapolis. The result secured the program the No. 1 seed for the College Football Playoff, but the bracket reveal poses the question: would the Ducks have been better off losing to the Nittany Lions?</p><p>Sure, Oregon gets a bye in the opening round thanks to the conference title, but a rematch with Ohio State or a blockbuster contest with Tennessee awaits in the quarterfinal. Meanwhile, Penn State hosts an SMU team with zero ranked wins on the season and a possible quarterfinal contest with No. 9 Boise State. While the Buckeyes and Volunteers are seeded behind the Broncos, both SMU and Boise are ranked behind either of the Ducks' quarterfinal opponents.</p><p>Dan Lanning, to his credit, downplayed the hard draw afterwards when interviewed on ESPN.</p><p>"What an opportunity, right," Lanning said, according to <a href="https://247sports.com/college/oregon/article/dan-oregon-oregon-ducks-playoffs-college-football-no-1-seed-241613892/">Matt Prehm of 247 Sports</a>. "In our world, we always talk about red light, green light. Focus on the things you can control. That's where we're going to focus on. Winning a national championship isn't supposed to be easy. So if our path is a little bit tougher, kudos to us if we go through it and take care of business."</p><p>However, Oregon can't be thrilled with the difficult path that awaits.</p><h3>Winner: ACC</h3><p>The ACC went from having an undefeated conference champion left out of the four-team playoff in 2023 to an 11-2 conference finalist with zero wins over ranked opponents included in the postseason this time around. The move to expand the playoffs paid off immediately for the third-best conference in college football.</p><p>Things didn't always look good for the ACC the past week, with 10-2 Miami behind 9-3 Alabama in the rankings Tuesday. That meant the ACC would be a one-bid league should SMU win the conference title game Saturday. But Clemson had other ideas, pulling off the thrilling upset over the Mustangs to steal the auto-bid.</p><p>That left SMU's fate to the committee - a precarious place given the clear respect it's previously shown for the Crimson Tide. Thankfully, it made the right call putting the Mustangs in the field and giving the proper respect to the ACC in the process.</p><h3>Loser: First-round bye protocol</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756993/cropped_GettyImages-2185635971.jpg?ts=1732410580" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756993/w220xh124_GettyImages-2185635971.jpg?ts=1732410580 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756993/w320xh180_GettyImages-2185635971.jpg?ts=1732410580 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756993/w640xh360_GettyImages-2185635971.jpg?ts=1732410580 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756993/w768xh432_GettyImages-2185635971.jpg?ts=1732410580 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/756993/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2185635971.jpg?ts=1732410580 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Overall, the increase to a 12-team field has been incredible for college football, but there needs to be one significant change for the second year of the format: the elimination of first-round byes for conference champions. With three-loss Clemson stealing the ACC auto-bid, two teams in the bottom of the 12-team field - No. 9 Boise State and No. 12 Arizona State - grabbed first-round byes this year.</p><p>The Sun Devils' strength of schedule sits 62nd in the country while the Broncos' is even worse at No. 81. Meanwhile, No. 7 Tennessee has to travel to Ohio State in Round 1 despite a strength of schedule that ranks 30th in the nation.</p><p>The conference champions should absolutely get an auto-bid to the 12-team field. That provides extra incentive to go all-out in an attempt to win a title game. However, the field must be seeded by strength once the 12 teams are set, with the first-round byes going to the best four teams, regardless of conference affiliation.</p>

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Winners and losers from the 12-team CFP field

There are only three SEC teams in the College Football Playoff field, but the conference led the ...

<p>There are only three SEC teams in the College Football Playoff field, but the conference led the way with a whopping seven programs inside the committee's final top 25.</p><p>Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee will participate in the 12-team postseason, while Alabama, Ole Miss, South Carolina, and Missouri round out the conference members in the list.</p><p>The Big Ten is next with five teams, while the Big 12 and ACC both put four programs in the top 25.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>RANK</th>
<th>TEAM</th>
<th>RECORD</th>
<th>PREVIOUS</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Oregon</td>
<td>13-0</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Georgia</td>
<td>11-2</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Texas</td>
<td>11-2</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Penn State</td>
<td>11-2</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Notre Dame</td>
<td>11-1</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Ohio State</td>
<td>10-2</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Tennessee</td>
<td>10-2</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Indiana</td>
<td>11-1</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Boise State</td>
<td>12-1</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>SMU</td>
<td>11-2</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Alabama</td>
<td>9-3</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Arizona State</td>
<td>10-2</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Miami</td>
<td>10-2</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Ole Miss</td>
<td>9-3</td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>South Carolina</td>
<td>9-3</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>Clemson</td>
<td>10-3</td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>BYU</td>
<td>10-2</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>Iowa State</td>
<td>10-3</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td>Missouri</td>
<td>9-3</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Illinois</td>
<td>9-3</td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td>Syracuse</td>
<td>9-3</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>22</td>
<td>Army</td>
<td>11-1</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td>Colorado</td>
<td>9-3</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>24</td>
<td>UNLV</td>
<td>10-3</td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>Memphis</td>
<td>10-2</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

ATLANTA, GA DECEMBER 07: Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers (3) is pressured by Georgia defenders Smael Mondon Jr. (2) and Mykel Williams (13) during the SEC Championship game between the Texas Longhorns and the Georgia Bulldogs on December 7th, 2024 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.

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SEC leads way with 7 teams in final CFP top 25

Oregon, Georgia, Boise State, and Arizona State are officially the first-round byes in the inaugu...

<p>Oregon, Georgia, Boise State, and Arizona State are officially the first-round byes in the inaugural edition of the 12-team College Football Playoff.</p><p>The Ducks and Bulldogs were ranked No. 1 and 2, respectively, in the final list. The Broncos, meanwhile, came in at No. 9 and the Sun Devils slotted in at No. 12. However, because the top four conference champions receive byes, Boise State and Arizona State will rest for the opening round.</p><p>The biggest drama of the release show came at the bottom: With SMU and Alabama battling for the final at-large spot, the committee chose the Mustangs despite their loss to 12th-seeded Clemson in the ACC title game.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>First-round matchups</h3><p><strong>Game 1:</strong> No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Notre Dame (Dec. 20, 8:00 p.m. ET)</p><p>The battle of Indiana takes center stage for the first CFP quarterfinal with the Hoosiers traveling three hours to face Notre Dame. Curt Cignetti has completely turned his club around in his first season in Bloomington, registering the first 11-win campaign in Indiana's history. But it'll be a tall task to take down arguably the hottest team in the country, the Fighting Irish. Marcus Freeman's program has run through the entire schedule after a stunning Week 2 loss to Northern Illinois, ripping off 10 straight wins and outscoring the competition 441-134 over that span.</p><p><strong>Game 2:</strong> No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Penn State (Dec. 21, 12:00 p.m. ET)</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747478/cropped_GettyImages-2175379841.jpg?ts=1727581014" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747478/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175379841.jpg?ts=1727581014 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747478/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175379841.jpg?ts=1727581014 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747478/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175379841.jpg?ts=1727581014 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747478/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175379841.jpg?ts=1727581014 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/747478/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175379841.jpg?ts=1727581014 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It was probably a nerve-racking 12 hours for SMU after the ACC title game loss, but the committee still deemed the Mustangs worthy of a CFP slot on Sunday. The joy will likely be short-lived, though - Rhett Lashlee's program is staring down a daunting road trip to Penn State. SMU's explosive offense will be in tough against Happy Valley, one of the top defensive units in the country. The bracket sets up well for Penn State should it beat SMU with Boise State on deck in the Fiesta Bowl.</p><p><strong>Game 3:</strong> No. 12 Clemson at No. 5 Texas (Dec. 21, 4:00 p.m. ET)</p><p>Clemson's dramatic last-second field goal to beat SMU secured the former a playoff spot, but the committee didn't move the Tigers past the 12-seed on Sunday. That forces Dabo Swinney to head west for a matchup with Texas in Austin. The Longhorns posted 11 wins on the campaign but lost twice to Georgia - the only two top-25 games on their schedule. Clemson has lost both its matchups with SEC opponents this season, including a 34-3 beatdown by Georgia in the opening week.</p><p><strong>Game 4:</strong> No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio State (Dec. 21, 8:00 p.m. ET)</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753201/cropped_GettyImages-2182511614.jpg?ts=1730591234" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753201/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182511614.jpg?ts=1730591234 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753201/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182511614.jpg?ts=1730591234 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753201/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182511614.jpg?ts=1730591234 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753201/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182511614.jpg?ts=1730591234 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753201/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182511614.jpg?ts=1730591234 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Scott Taetsch / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The blockbuster matchup of the opening round is undoubtedly a big-brand contest between Tennessee and Ohio State. While Volunteers fans will be disappointed they aren't hosting, they should feel good about the fact the Buckeyes lost to Michigan the last time they played at home. Both teams field top-10 defensive units and offensive attacks that have underwhelmed at times despite rostering significant talent.</p>

ATLANTA, GA - JANUARY 08: The College Football Playoff National Championship Trophy during the College Football Playoff National Championship Game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Georgia Bulldogs on January 8, 2018 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire)

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CFP committee sets field, picks SMU over Alabama

The games are finished, the data points have been counted, and all that's left is Sunday's offici...

<p>The games are finished, the data points have been counted, and all that's left is Sunday's official unveiling of the first 12-team College Football Playoff field.</p><p>The committee made things fairly clear with their rankings and explanations Tuesday, so seeding was mostly what was at stake on the field Saturday.</p><p>There are 12 hours before the picks are announced on ESPN, but we don't have to wait to drop our predictions on how the playoff will break down.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>First-round byes</h3><p><strong>Top 4:</strong> No. 1 Oregon, No. 2 Georgia, No. 3 Boise State, No. 4 Arizona St.</p><p>Oregon capped an unbeaten first season in the Big Ten with an impressive win over Penn State in the title game. That keeps the Ducks as the clear No. 1 heading into the playoffs. Georgia's second win over Texas this season sees the former leap to No. 2 and grab the second bye - a significant development that gives Carson Beck an extra week to get healthy. Things get interesting at No. 3, where it's a choice between Boise State, Arizona State, and Clemson for the two final first-round byes. The guess is that the committee keeps the same order it had prior to Saturday's games and gives the nod to the Broncos and Sun Devils at Nos. 3 and 4.</p><h3>First-round matchups</h3><p><strong>Game 1:</strong> No. 12 Clemson at No. 5 Penn State<br><strong>Game 2:</strong> No. 11 SMU at No. 6 Notre Dame<br><strong>Game 3:</strong> No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Texas<br><strong>Game 4:</strong> No. 9 Tennessee at No. 8 Ohio State</p><p>A playoff spot looked unlikely when Clemson walked off the field after last weekend's home loss to South Carolina. However, a shocking road loss by Miami saw the Tigers back their way into the ACC title game versus SMU, and they took full advantage of that second chance with a dramatic win over the Mustangs to snag an automatic spot. Their reward is a first-round matchup against a Penn State team that gave Oregon a solid fight in the Big Ten title game. The atmosphere at a sold-out Beaver Stadium could be the best in the opening round of the playoff.</p><p>The 6-11 matchup features SMU traveling to South Bend to face Notre Dame. The Mustangs' ferocious comeback in the ACC title game may have fallen just short, but it was enough to convince the committee they deserved a spot over Alabama. There's no hotter team in the country than their opponent, as the Fighting Irish have overcome a Week 2 loss to Northern Illinois with a 10-game winning streak.</p><p>The 7-10 contest features the school with the fourth-most wins in college football history and the team with the most losses ever. Texas is no stranger to the playoff, but Indiana on the other side of the field is a shocker. Both teams enter with questions surrounding their resumes - the Longhorns and Hooisers have a combined 0-3 record against top-25 opposition this season.</p><p>All four first-round matchups have the potential to be bangers, but the 8-9 game between Tennessee and Ohio State is our pick of the bunch. Both teams sport top-five defensive units in the country with offensive talent that has somehow underwhelmed at times. If you think the heat on Ryan Day is serious now, watch what happens if the Buckeyes lose a home playoff game.</p>

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - JULY 23: The College Football Playoff (CFP) Championship trophy sits on display during the 2024 Big Ten Media Days on July 23, 2024 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN.

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CFP predictions: SMU over Bama, Texas falls to No. 7

<p><em>College Football Wrap-Up recaps the most important developments from the day's action and examines their significance moving forward.</em></p><h3>Georgia's defense does it again</h3><p>Maybe clean football and comfortable wins just aren't in Georgia's DNA for the 2024 season. The Bulldogs overcame a dreadful first-half performance on offense for the second week in a row to emerge with an overtime victory and claim the SEC title in Atlanta.</p><p>The defense bailed Georgia out once again, holding Texas to just 16 points in regulation time. The Longhorns have scored a total of 31 points in 120 minutes versus the Bulldogs this year, and Saturday's performance was similar to the earlier matchup between the teams this season, with Georgia posting six sacks and an eye-popping 15 tackles for loss. A combined 13 sacks and 25 tackles for loss over two games shows us that Texas simply cannot block the Bulldogs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>There's no question the defense is worthy of a national title, but there will be more questions about the shaky offense after the injury suffered Saturday by Carson Beck. The senior passer was hurt on the final play of the opening half and sidelined for the second as a result. That left Gunnar Stockton behind center, and he immediately led the Bulldogs on a touchdown drive. However, it was tough sledding the rest of the way for Stockton, as Georgia struggled to move the ball. The running game carried the Bulldogs in overtime, with Trevor Etienne eventually supplying the game-winning touchdown.</p><p>Most of the attention will focus on Beck's health going forward, and plenty of Florida State fans will be eager to comment on how the unbeaten Seminoles were left out of the CFP last year once starting quarterback Jordan Travis was injured. However, they won't mention that it was a four-team playoff and that Florida State would have been included in a 12-team field.</p><p>Even if Beck is fine going forward, there's a serious issue emerging for the Georgia offense. The Bulldogs have now played five games against Power conference competition since the end of October. Beyond the home win over Tennessee, the offense averaged just four points and 28 rushing yards in the first half of the other four games.</p><h3>We need to look at Texas' resume</h3><p>Texas had very long stretches of play Saturday that suggested it<strong> <em>should </em></strong>have beaten Georgia. The Longhorns had more first downs, easily won the total yardage battle 389-277, and threw the ball all over the secondary. However, turnovers, penalties, and missed kicks are enough to sink anybody, and Steve Sarkisian's program is no exception. A total of 11 penalties for 94 yards, two errant field-goal attempts by the usually reliable Bert Auburn, and two interceptions by Quinn Ewers kept things close enough for the game to need overtime.</p><p>The eventual loss in the extra frame is going to call some serious attention to Texas' CFP resume ahead of Sunday's release. While the No. 2 Longhorns are certainly in no danger of missing out, it's fair to ask whether they deserve a first-round home game. The Longhorns have zero wins over top-25 opponents and two losses to Georgia, who comfortably won by 15 points on the road in Austin and claimed the second victory with a backup quarterback playing half the game.</p><h3>Oregon's ultimate eraser</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759516/cropped_GettyImages-2188235172.jpg?ts=1733635917" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759516/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188235172.jpg?ts=1733635917 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759516/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188235172.jpg?ts=1733635917 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759516/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188235172.jpg?ts=1733635917 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759516/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188235172.jpg?ts=1733635917 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759516/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188235172.jpg?ts=1733635917 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There's a reason Oregon went out and got Dillon Gabriel in the transfer portal after Bo Nix left for the NFL in the offseason. The former Oklahoma star torched Penn State for 283 yards and four touchdowns in a 45-37 victory. Combined with Gabriel's strong showing in the October win over Ohio State, he threw for 624 yards, six touchdowns and zero interceptions in the Ducks' two biggest games of the season.</p><p>The Oregon defense can dominate most opponents and let the offense coast to comfortable wins. But that wasn't the case in Indianapolis, with the Nittany Lions gashing the Ducks for a staggering 292 yards on the ground. The offense needed to be great to keep pace, and it was, finishing the game with 12.9 yards per completion and going 5-for-8 on third and fourth downs in the second half against the nation's fifth-ranked defense.</p><p>Saturday also served as a reminder of what a healthy Tez Johnson can do for the Oregon offense. The electric receiver roasted Penn State for 11 catches on 12 targets, 181 yards, and a touchdown. Gabriel knew Johnson was his safest choice all night and called on him when he needed a big play.</p><p>The Ducks are unquestionably the best team in the nation heading into the CFP and boast a Big Ten championship in their first season with the new conference. They will certainly have to tighten up the rush defense for the quarterfinals in three weeks, but with Gabriel as the eraser of all errors, the outlook is good for more trophies in Eugene this season.</p><h3>Penn State loses game, wins respect</h3><p>Now <em><strong>that</strong> </em>is what we wanted to see from Penn State in a big game.</p><p>Yes, James Franklin is now 1-14 against top-5 opposition, but those games have usually been plagued by a sputtering offense in defeat. That wasn't the case Saturday with the Nittany Lions piling up 518 total yards and hanging 37 points on Oregon.</p><p>Andy Kotelnicki was brought in as offensive coordinator in the offseason and the early returns suggested things were different in State College. However, a familiar loss to Ohio State where the offense struggled mightily sent Nittany Lions fans into a bout of PTSD. Kotelnicki eased those fears and then some against the Ducks. Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton both topped the 100-yard mark on the ground with the team putting up over 8 yards per rush.</p><p>The Nittany Lions are severely hampered by a lack of elite talent at wide receiver. Outside of tight end Tyler Warren and the running back duo, only Harrison Wallace caught more than one pass on the night. That requires Kotelnicki to be extremely creative on offense to move the ball - a task he was certainly up for against Oregon.</p><h3>Put Clemson and SMU in playoff</h3><p>There will be a three-loss team in the College Football Playoff, but it won't be Alabama. At least it shouldn't be.</p><p>Clemson improbably booked its ticket to the 12-team field with a dramatic 34-31 victory on a last-second 56-yard field goal to beat SMU and win the ACC title. That puts the Tigers in the playoff for the first time since 2020 despite the fact they entered championship weekend with three losses on the schedule. Dabo Swinney's team finally clicked in a big game with Cade Klubnik leading the way. The junior passer threw for 262 yards and four touchdowns - a huge improvement off last week's dismal showing in a loss to South Carolina.</p><p>A Tigers win over SMU would make it a battle between idle Alabama and the Mustangs for the final playoff spot. The ferocious comeback by SMU versus Clemson fell short but should be more than enough to secure that playoff spot. At least, according to head coach Rhett Lashlee it should:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rhett Lashlee on SMU's CFP hopes: "It would be criminal if we are not in. It would be wrong not just to our team but to what college football stands for."</p>— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) <a href="https://twitter.com/RossDellenger/status/1865623623400083643?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>We <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3149137" href="https://thescore.com/news/3149137">covered</a> the committee's love for Alabama earlier this week, but not even the history with the Crimson Tide should keep SMU out when the field is announced Sunday at noon.</p><h3>Arizona State, the CFP's Cinderella </h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759517/cropped_GettyImages-2188199546.jpg?ts=1733635985" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759517/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188199546.jpg?ts=1733635985 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759517/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188199546.jpg?ts=1733635985 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759517/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188199546.jpg?ts=1733635985 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759517/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188199546.jpg?ts=1733635985 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759517/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188199546.jpg?ts=1733635985 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Icon Sportswire / Icon Sportswire / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Cinderella doesn't usually make an appearance in college sports until March, but the first year of the expanded College Football Playoff has Arizona State as the plucky underdog worth rooting for. The Sun Devils capped an incredible first season in the Big 12 with a 45-19 thrashing of Iowa State in Arlington to lock up a berth in the 12-team playoff field. The only question left is whether the CFP committee values the 26-point blowout enough for Arizona State to jump Boise State and grab a first-round bye.</p><p>How unlikely is the Sun Devils' run to the Big 12 title? Before the season, Kenny Dillingham's program was picked to finish last in the 16-team league by the media and was listed at odds of 100-1 to emerge as conference champions. For context, those are the same odds the New Orleans Saints had to win the Super Bowl before the season began.</p><p>Any Cinderella story needs its unlikely star, and the most entertaining - and productive - member of Arizona State is undoubtedly do-everything running back Cam Skattebo.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cam Skattebo is the first Big 12 player ever to have at least 1500 rushing yards and 500 receiving yards in the same season. <br><br>He is first FBS player to do it since McCaffrey in 2015.<br><br>h/t <a href="https://twitter.com/StatsPerform?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StatsPerform</a></p>— Jeremy Hawkes (@JeremyHawkes) <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremyHawkes/status/1865481229107097713?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The former zero-star recruit's two scholarship offers came from Sacramento State and William &amp; Mary, but he was hitting the Heisman pose multiple times Saturday while piling up 208 total yards and three touchdowns against the Cyclones. He wasn't shy about it, either.</p><p>"Nobody respects the fact that I'm the best running back in the country. I'm going to stand on that," Skattebo said after the contest, according to<a href="https://x.com/ChrisVannini/status/1865507771371720758"> Chris Vannini of The Athletic</a>. "Whatever NFL team takes me is going to get a gem."</p><p>Arizona State will enter the playoff on a six-game winning streak with just two losses on the season. However, one of those came without starting quarterback Sam Leavitt.</p><h3>Jeanty runs Boise State to CFP</h3><p>Three months into the season and the biggest blip on Ashton Jeanty's resume is an earlier matchup with UNLV. While it feels absurd to refer to a game with 128 yards rushing and a touchdown as a blip, it's the only FBS contest this year in which Jeanty was held under 150 total yards and 4.8 yards per carry. But Jeanty made amends and then some in Friday's rematch, running wild for 208 yards - including an <a href="https://x.com/CFBONFOX/status/1865221311384957033">electric 75-yard touchdown</a> - as the Broncos claimed the MWC title and a spot in the College Football Playoff.</p><p>Jeanty now sits just 131 yards behind Barry Sanders' all-time single-season record of 2,628. Heisman ballots are due this week before the Broncos take the field for their playoff game. Did Friday's performance do enough to level Jeanty with heavy betting favorite Travis Hunter? We'll find out next weekend in New York.</p>

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CFB Wrap-Up: Takeaways from conference championship games

Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold will enter the transfer portal after a season in which he was...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/teams/509" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/teams/509">Oklahoma</a> quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/184474" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/184474">Jackson Arnold</a> will enter the transfer portal after a season in which he was briefly benched, a source told <a href="https://x.com/max_olson/status/1864413101417710012">Max Olson of ESPN</a>.</p><p>Arnold came to Oklahoma as the No. 3 overall recruit in the class of 2023 and sat his freshman season behind Dillon Gabriel. He took over the starting job after the veteran passer transferred to Oregon but struggled mightily amid a slew of receiver injuries in Norman.</p><p>He was eventually benched by Brent Venables during a September home loss to Tennessee after completing only 7 of 16 pass attempts with an interception in the opening half. Freshman Michael Hawkins took over and would start the next three games before being benched during a 35-9 home loss to South Carolina.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Arnold performed admirably once reinserted into the lineup, ending the season with 12 touchdowns against just three interceptions. He established himself as a dangerous runner down the stretch, piling up 131 yards on the ground in a stunning upset over Alabama in Week 13.</p>

NORMAN, OKLAHOMA - SEPTEMBER 14: Jackson Arnold #11 of the Oklahoma Sooners warms up prior to a game against the Tulane Green Wave at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on September 14, 2024 in Norman, Oklahoma.

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Report: Oklahoma's Arnold to enter transfer portal

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