Playoff Picture Takes Shape Ahead of Conference Championship Weekend

Written By: Bryce Wolaver

Adpated for Web By: Bryce Wolaver

GRAPEVINE, TX - With conference championship week just days away, the race for the final 12 spots in the College Football Playoff is reaching its climax. The final rankings will be unveiled Sunday, but several pivotal matchups this weekend will determine which programs ultimately secure their place in the postseason.

The Big 12 takes center stage first as Texas Tech faces BYU in a high-stakes showdown. For the Cougars, it’s a true win-or-go-home scenario as they fight to keep their playoff hopes alive. A loss would almost certainly end their bid for a spot in the inaugural 12-team field.

In the ACC, one of the season’s most surprising stories continues as Duke prepares to meet Virginia. The winner will claim the conference’s automatic berth, adding even more weight to an already compelling matchup. Meanwhile, teams such as Tulane, North Texas, and James Madison will be watching closely, as the outcomes could open the door for their own postseason opportunities.

Notre Dame and Miami, both on the bubble, have no remaining games to strengthen their résumés. Instead, they’ll spend the weekend scoreboard-watching, knowing that one of them, if not both, may be left on the outside looking in.

The final word arrives Sunday when ESPN airs the official selection show, revealing the complete playoff field and setting the stage for an exciting postseason run.