The College Football Playoff is down to four teams. This stage of the postseason unveils an unexpected landscape, as neither conference champions nor top-four seeds remain. Notably, Ohio State’s upset of top-seeded Oregon and Notre Dame’s strong performance against SEC champion Georgia have reshaped expectations for the final stretch.
Texas is the last Southeastern Conference representative, following a double-overtime win against Arizona State. The Longhorns now face a significant test as they prepare for a challenging matchup against Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. Despite previous struggles in crunch time, Texas emerged victorious and must now harness its strengths. A notable figuration in the offense is Quintrevion Wisner. His ability to establish a rushing presence could mitigate pressure on quarterback Quinn Ewers amid Ohio State’s formidable defense.
Penn State joins the playoff scene with considerable momentum. The Nittany Lions delivered a dominant performance against Boise State, building off their first-round success against SMU. With a robust offensive line playing cohesively, they head into the Orange Bowl fuller of confidence. Tyler Warren, an all-around athlete, emerges as a focal point in the offense. His versatility will be crucial against a veteran-laden Notre Dame defense.
Notre Dame boasts an impressive streak of 12 victories with an average margin of victory of over 27 points. The Fighting Irish have executed their game plan with precision, particularly evident in their Sugar Bowl victory over Georgia. Marcus Freeman’s squad displayed resilience, controlling the game’s rhythm with a strong running strategy. Jordan Faison has become a critical contributor, particularly during crucial third-down situations, showcasing the team’s depth on offense.
Ohio State stands as the favorite heading into the semifinals. The Buckeyes have demonstrated explosiveness and defensive dominance, winning their playoff games decisively. Key players like Will Howard and Jeremiah Smith have shone bright, orchestrating significant offensive plays. Ohio State’s defensive front has caused major disruptions, tallying eight sacks in their last game. Emeka Egbuka could pose a challenge for Texas’ secondary, drawing attention away from Smith and potentially allowing him to thrive in the upcoming matchup.
With the semifinals set for January 9 and 10, the questions loom: which team will harness the moment, and who will emerge for the opportunity to compete for the national title? Each remaining squad brings its own strengths to the table, setting the stage for thrilling playoff action.
