The 2024-25 College Football Playoffs is the first of its kind, as this is the first year of the 12-team playoff format. The field consisted of 5 conference winners, along with 7 teams who were able to grab an at-large bid. Out of this strong field of contenders, who are the teams that you need to know about.
Championship Prediction: Oregon Ducks
Oregon is the #1 seed after going undefeated in the regular season and winning the Big 10 Championship. They are 3-0 against teams that are in the playoffs. They have several future NFL players on their roster, including star quarterback DIllon Gabriel, who scored 35 touchdowns this season. Their offensive weapons are dynamic, with running back Jordan James (1455 yards, 15 touchdowns), wide receiver Evan Stewart (613 yards, 5 TDs), and wide receiver Tez Johnson (866 yards, 10 TDs) being among the best skill position players in the nation. Their defense, led by Matayo Uiagalelei (10.5 sacks), Jordan Burch (8.5 sacks), and Jabbar Muhammad (11 passes defended), allowed only 17.8 points per game. Their offensive and defensive prowess, combined with their stellar resume, makes them the team to beat in this year’s playoffs.
Biggest Sleeper: Tennessee Volunteers
While Tennessee may only be the #9 seed, their resume is very strong. Tennessee has a top ten ranked offense AND defense. Quarterback Nico Iamaleva (2512 yards, 19 TDs), oozes with potential. Running back Dylan Sampson (1626 yards, 22 TDs) is one of the most dynamic offensive weapons in the country. Their defense features stars such as defensive end James Pearce Jr. (7.5 sacks) and cornerback Jermod McCoy (4 INTs, 9 passes defended). Their stout defense has allowed more than 20 points only twice this season, so if Tennessee’s offense can string together a few strong performances, they are serious contenders to end up on top.
Most Fun Team to Root For: Boise St Broncos
Boise State is easily the least prestigious football program in the playoffs. However, they have one of the best players in the nation in running back Ashton Jeanty (2613 yards, 30 TDs). Jeanty has become a national fan favorite throughout the season, as his weekly 200 rushing yard performances have made him a household name. Fans will hope to see Jeanty continue to dominate. Boise State’s only loss this season is to the undefeated Oregon Ducks, so a deep playoff run is in the realm of possibility.
Hometown Hero: Penn State Nittany Lions
No team has benefited from the expanded playoffs than Penn State. After a decade of always being on the outside looking in, Penn State has finally garnered a playoff bid. Led by quarterback Drew Allar (2894 yards, 21 TDs), Running Back Nicholas Singleton (1173 yards, 12 touchdowns), and tight end Tyler Warren (1253 yards, 10 TDs), Penn State’s offense will be able to keep pace with other teams, while linebacker Abdul Carter (10 sacks, 20 TFLs), leds a strong defensive front. Parkland students will root for center Nick Dawkins, a Parkland alumni, to have a strong playoff performance.
Is This Their year?: Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame hasn’t won a national championship since 1988. However, there are reasons for optimism that this could finally be their year. Notre Dame have both the third-ranked offense and defense in the country. Quarterback Riley Leonard (30 total TDs), is a threat both as a runner and a passer. Running back Jeremiyah Love (1155 yards, 15 TDs), has been stellar this season. no one has him on the same tier as most of the playoff’s top running backs. Their defense features stars such as safety Xavier Watts (5 INTs, 9 passes defended) and linebacker Jack Kiser (64 tackles). If the Fighting Irish can get past #2 Georgia, they have a clear path to reaching the championship game.
