Bowl projections: USC replaces Oregon in CFP bracket, Ohio State and Texas hold firm
Key Points:
- Oregon suffered a surprising loss to Oklahoma State, ending their winning streak over unranked teams and putting their playoff hopes in jeopardy, with tough games against USC, Ohio State, Michigan, and Washington remaining.
- Ohio State's loss to Texas showcased the competitiveness of top preseason teams, with Texas earning a significant resume boost for potential at-large College Football Playoff consideration.
- Boise State remains the leading Group of Six playoff contender after a strong win over Memphis and a favorable remaining schedule in the Mountain West.
- Projected College Football Playoff teams include Miami (ACC champion), Georgia (SEC champion), Ohio State (Big Ten champion), Notre Dame, and Texas, with strong performances and key upcoming matchups shaping their trajectories.
- Other notable teams in the top 12 projections are Indiana, Texas Tech, LSU, USC, BYU, and SMU, each with opportunities and challenges that will influence their playoff chances as the season progresses.