After a stunning performance by the Ohio State Buckeyes, Ohio State was able to secure their seventh national championship in College Football. The Buckeyes were far from the favorites in the playoffs, being seeded at #8 out of #12. Their low ranking stems from their loss against their rival, the University of Michigan.
Ohio State was able to go so far this year because of the new NCAA playoff rules. The NCAA announced the overwhelming push for a 12 team playoff following a 2023 vote by their Board of Managers. Compared to the four team playoffs in years past, this more expansive playoff allowed more competition for teams that had one or two losses. The change was likely caused by the scrutiny of who made the playoffs when more than four teams had incredible seasons.
Luckily for the Hoosiers, two colleges within Indiana were able to make the CFP: Notre Dame and the University of Indiana. Both these teams had incredible accomplishments in their own ways. The University of Indiana went just 3-9 in their previous seasons but was able to make one of the most incredible turnarounds in CFP playoffs by going 11-2 this year. The success was largely credited to the new head coach, Curt Cignetti. Notre Dame, on the other hand, was able to make the CFP championship and play against Ohio State. Notre Dame beat opponents such as #2 Georgia and #10 Indiana University.
Notre Dame fan and principal, Mr. VanSlambrook, thoughts on the championship game were disheartened. Mr. VanSlambrook explained, “I feel like Notre Dame didn’t play their best game and it was especially disappointing because there was some light at the end of the tunnel near the end.” Notre Dame was able to cut the lead from 7-31 to a one score game near the end of the game. However, the rally was not able to continue, with Ohio State being able to hold on until the end of the game. With a final score of 34-23, the game was a loss for the Irish. While devastating, the opportunity for Notre Dame to make the championship is still an incredible feat.
Outside of the championship game, there were also plenty of unexpected stars and top team letdowns very early in the bracket. During the second round of the bracket, every single high ranked team that had a bye lost. These teams include: #1 Oregon, #2 Georgia, #3 Boise State, and #4 Arizona State. While upsetting for many fans who believed in their team, the loss of all four of the top ranked teams made the playoffs more of a wild card than in years past.
Ultimately, with fans across the country being able to watch their team in the playoffs, this year’s CFP was a success. The upsets, close games, and plethora of fans made it a competitive and interesting finish to the college football season.
