As we dive deeper into the college football season, the stakes are higher than ever. One misstep can cost a team its shot at the College Football Playoff (CFP), and Week 7 proved just how unpredictable this journey can be. From shocking upsets to must-win victories, the landscape is shifting dramatically. But here's where it gets controversial: could Texas Tech, a team once considered an underdog, now be the front-runner in the notoriously unpredictable Big 12? Let’s break it down.
The season has reached a critical point where every loss feels like a double penalty, and teams are either solidifying their playoff hopes or watching them slip away. Week 7 was a rollercoaster, with coach firings, historic upsets, and clutch wins that reshaped the rankings. Now, with more data in hand, we can refine our projections—and the Big 12 is stealing the spotlight.
Texas Tech isn’t just leading the Big 12; they’re looking like a legitimate threat to run the table. After defeating Utah, a top competitor, and benefiting from injuries to rivals like Arizona State and Iowa State, the Red Raiders are in prime position. Even BYU’s flaws could work in their favor. In a league as chaotic as the Big 12, it would be surprising if Texas Tech didn’t dominate, setting them up for a quarterfinal berth in their home state this December. But here’s the twist: even with a perfect season, they might only have three wins over Top 25 teams. Will that matter if they keep blowing out opponents with the nation’s best scoring margin? It’s a debate worth having.
Elsewhere, the pecking order is starting to take shape. The Big Ten is clarifying, the SEC is sorting itself out behind Alabama, and Notre Dame continues to defy expectations, staying in the CFP conversation. Speaking of Alabama, their loss to Florida State could have seeding implications—especially if Miami, who beat the same opponent, finishes strong. And this is the part most people miss: while Ohio State’s dominance is undeniable, their résumé isn’t head and shoulders above the rest. Yet, their performances will likely secure them a top seed.
Here’s the latest CFP projection, factoring in all the chaos:
- Ohio State (6–0) – Unstoppable so far, but can they keep it up?
- Miami (5–0) – A quiet contender with a favorable schedule.
- Alabama (5–1) – Still a powerhouse, but that Florida State loss lingers.
- Texas Tech (6–0) – The Big 12’s surprise juggernaut.
- Indiana (6–0) – Fresh off a historic upset of Oregon.
- Georgia (5–1) – Steady but not spectacular.
- Texas A&M (6–0) – Flying under the radar.
- Oregon (5–1) – Can they bounce back from the Indiana loss?
- Ole Miss (6–0) – A shaky win over Washington State raises questions.
- Georgia Tech (6–0) – Haynes King’s story adds intrigue.
- Notre Dame (4–2) – Always in the mix, but can they stay?
- USF (5–1) – Emerging as a favorite in the American.
Controversial question: Is Texas Tech’s potential run overrated, or are they the real deal? Let us know in the comments. And don’t forget to check out SI’s college football podcast, Others Receiving Votes, for more insights. The race to the CFP is heating up—who will make the cut?
