The 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) marks the first implementation of the expanded 12-team format, a shift from the previous four-team model. This change aims to make the postseason more inclusive and competitive, providing opportunities for more teams to contend for the national championship. With the end of the regular season approaching, Texas A&M and Ohio State are among the teams effectively guaranteed a spot in the playoff, reflecting their strong performances this season.
Key Highlights of the 2024 CFP Structure
The new playoff format comprises:
1. Automatic Bids: The top five conference champions receive automatic entries.
2. At-Large Spots: Seven additional slots are awarded to the highest-ranked non-champion teams.
3. Seeding: The top four teams, as conference champions, earn a first-round bye, while seeds 5 through 12 play in the opening round.
Ohio State’s Path to the Playoff
Ohio State continues to assert its dominance as one of the top-ranked teams, securing a likely high seed. Their balanced offense, led by a strong quarterback and explosive wide receivers, paired with a stifling defense, has made them a powerhouse in the Big Ten. A