CFP Teams
Florida State was dealt multiple blows on Saturday. They we're dominated by Alabama, and they also lost quarterback Deondre Francois for the season with a knee injury. With Francois out, the Seminoles almost have to reset their season in order to move forward. Picking four playoff teams was difficult after just one week. Many teams played inferior competition, so it was tough punish them because of that. Other teams played better competition, but it was hard for me to justify moving them up so many spots (mostly, Michigan). I tried to go by who I thought were the four best teams based on performance, how they looked, and a few other factors. Obviously, we will get more clarity as the season progresses, but here are the Top 4 for now.
Ohio State reigns at the top still, but they have some stiff competition below them in Alabama. The Buckeyes took care of business against Indiana, but the Tide handled their matchup against Florida State as well. A colossal matchup awaits in Columbus this week as the Oklahoma Sooners come to town, and that game could have heavy implications for the College Football Playoff.
Alabama did what they normally do: win. It wasn't flashy. It was far from the most entertaining. It was typical Alabama. The defense looks like they've handled their key losses well, but a few injuries are a concern going forward. Not this week though, as a matchup against Fresno State could mean we see the backups play more than the starters.
USC held off a stingy Western Michigan team at home, and put up 28 points in the fourth quarter to secure the win. It was a cause for concern for some, but the Broncos are a better team than people realize. Sam Darnold looked off, and USC will need him to pick up the slack quickly. Stanford is coming to town this week and Texas awaits the next.
Oklahoma didn't do much to move up, but Florida State's loss aided their improvement. Baker Mayfield was nearly perfect against UTEP last week, and the Sooners might need him to be perfect when they play Ohio State. A bitter taste remains in their mouths after last year's contest, and you can bet Mayfield is going to be ready.
Saquon Barkley didn't get the ball early, but he still got the ball plenty and made the most of his touches. After dominating Akron, the Nittany Lions turn their attention to one of the two teams they lost to last year in Pittsburgh. Oklahoma State handled their business with Tulsa, and the offense appeared to be in midseason form. The Mason Rudolph-James Washington connection picked up where they left off in 2016, and the defense seemed to be improved from last year (TBD if that will continue).
