The selection for the 2024-25 College Football Playoff is officially complete.
This year’s process marked a significant change with the introduction of a 12-team bracket, leading to an exciting array of matches and surprises. Oregon claimed the top seed following an undefeated season, finishing at 13-0, a notable return to the postseason since the 2014-15 campaign. Their journey included significant victories, including a triumph in the Big Ten Championship Game.
Georgia, with an 11-2 record, secured the second seed after capturing the SEC Championship. Boise State, the Mountain West champion, and Big 12 champion Arizona State rounded out the top four, both earning first-round byes.
Clemson, the lone Power Four champion without a bye, entered the playoffs as the twelfth seed. They will face Texas, which finished the season at 11-2, in the first round. The other matchups include Ohio State hosting Tennessee, Penn State welcoming SMU, and Notre Dame playing Indiana. Each first-round game will occur at the home of the higher-seeded team.
Quarterfinals and semifinals will take place at traditional New Year’s Six bowl sites. The Rose Bowl will feature Oregon and the winner of the Ohio State-Tennessee game, while the Sugar Bowl will host Georgia and Indiana or Notre Dame. Other matchups include Boise State facing the winner of the SMU-Penn State contest in the Fiesta Bowl, and Arizona State meeting either Texas or Clemson in the Peach Bowl.
The selection process generated considerable debate, particularly with SMU’s inclusion over Alabama. Despite Alabama’s strong history, they fell short, having not participated in conference championship weekend. The selection committee deemed Alabama’s losses more detrimental than SMU’s overall performance.
This playoff bracket showcases 12 teams filled with diverse stories and histories. Oregon’s return, Boise State’s historic climb, and the underdog narrative of Indiana add layers of intrigue. The expanded format promises a thrilling postseason ahead. The first round kicks off soon, setting the stage for an unforgettable college football season finale.
