After waiting so long it’s finally here. Here’s what you need to know on this the dawn of a new era.
I remember argument after argument from as far back as the BCS computer algorithm days that a playoff was what we wanted and needed but I think we all thought it would never happen. The logistics, the existing bowls, the money, the timeline, the schedule, and a whoole mess of other things made it a pipe dream at best and a massive never-gonna-happen at worst.
This is one time I’ll happily eat some crow for a freezing cold take. We’re here. And it’s glorious. Imperfect? Sure. But at the end of the day it’s a first step to perhaps a better system and a brighter future. Sometimes to lose the weight and get the six pack you have to trade in the late night pizza for 6 inch turkey subs with no cheese and mustard. That’s where we’re at. But damn it, that turkey sub was a long time coming and I’m going to cherish it.
For those unfamiliar with the playoff format, I have to ask where you’ve been for the last few months, but I will also own that it is more than a little confusing. Thankfully, ESPN has you covered with this banger…
No words. Just emotions. Let it consume you.
Once you’re ready to push ahead, here’s what you need to know in advance of the first round matchups….
Friday, December 20:
(10) Indiana at (7) Notre Dame (8:00 PM ET, ABC/ESPN)
- Spread: Notre Dame -7
- Over/Under: 52.5
- Notre Dame hosts Indiana in their third CFP appearance.
- Indiana makes their CFP debut under first-year coach Curt Cignetti, boasting a top-three scoring offense.
- Notre Dame has a strong rushing attack led by sophomore Jeremiyah Love and quarterback Riley Leonard.
- Indiana counters with the nation’s best rushing defense.
- The game could be a defensive battle with potential weather challenges.
Saturday, December 21:
(11) SMU at (6) Penn State (12:00 PM ET, TNT/Max):
- Spread: Penn State -9
- Over/Under: 54
- Both Penn State and SMU make their CFP debuts.
- Penn State coach James Franklin has a 4-14 record against top-15 ranked teams, seeking a deep playoff run to change the narrative.
- SMU narrowly missed winning the ACC in their first year in the conference.
- The atmosphere at Penn State’s Beaver Stadium is expected to be electric.
(12) Clemson at (5) Texas (4:00 PM ET, TNT/Max):
- Spread: Texas -12
- Over/Under: 51.5
- Clemson, after winning the ACC Championship, aims to play spoiler against Texas.
- Texas, with losses to Georgia, looks to bounce back and prove their CFP worthiness.
- Both teams possess explosive offenses and talented defenses, promising a high-scoring and competitive game.
(9) Tennessee at (8) Ohio State (8:00 PM ET, ABC/ESPN):
- Spread: Ohio State -7.5
- Over/Under: 46.5
- Tennessee travels to Columbus to face Ohio State in a highly anticipated matchup.
- Tennessee has won six of their last seven games to earn this opportunity.
- Ohio State seeks to defend their home turf and continue their CFP journey.
- The game is expected to be a close contest with potential weather conditions playing a factor.
Maybe you’re going to a holiday gathering on Friday and you aren’t much of a football guy. Don’t worry. We got you.
Your Key Easy to Parrot Storylines for the Casual Fan:
- Expanded Playoff Format: The 12-team format creates more opportunities for teams and adds excitement to the postseason.
- On-Campus Games: First-round games on campus provide a unique atmosphere and home-field advantage for higher-seeded teams.
- Cinderella Potential: Lower-seeded teams like Indiana and SMU have the chance to pull off upsets and make deep runs.
- High Stakes: With a national championship on the line, the intensity and competition will be fierce in every game.
Here’s the thing… every one of these first round matchups is intriguing. There’s in-state rivalries, haves versus have nots, blue bloods that feel disrespected, and plucky underdogs that just want a seat at the table, however undeserved. And that’s just in the Indiana-Notre Dame game. There’s potential all over the place and someone’s argument is going to get a lot of ammunition when it’s all said and done on Saturday night. I can’t wait. It’s time. We’re here.