One loss teams that have a shot … technically
Run the table and finish the season with one loss and a conference championship, and that should get the job done. If any of these teams win out and take a Power Five championship, it’ll be almost a near-certain lock to get in. Lose again, though, and that’s it.
Clemson (7-1)
When it’ll all be over: Can the Tigers get healthy? Clemson is still Clemson, but the battle with Boston College and now the loss to Notre Dame are concerning. The still have to go to Virginia Tech, Pitt is good enough to be dangerous, and a rematch with Notre Dame in the ACC Championship isn’t a given, but … it’s Clemson. It’ll be okay.
Florida (3-1)
When it’ll all be over: If it’s not this week against Georgia, then you’re going to have to wait until the SEC Championship. A two-loss season if the loss to – say, Alabama – in the title game might still get it done.
Maryland (2-1)
When it’ll all be over: Very, very soon. That was an amazing win over Penn State, and the team is playing well, but Ohio State is up next and there are still road games at Indiana and Michigan.
Miami (6-1)
When it’ll all be over: The Canes aren’t playing all that well, but they’re winning. If the trip to Virginia Tech doesn’t bring the end to the CFP dream, it’ll come at Wake Forest or against North Carolina.
Oklahoma State (5-1)
When it’ll all be over: If it’s not at Oklahoma, it’s still going to be tough with three of the last four games on the road. However, win out, beat Texas (maybe) in the Big 12 Championship, and there will at least be a little consideration.
Texas A&M (6-1)
When it’ll all be over: It might not be. With the way the team is playing, it’ll likely come down to the regular season finale against Auburn. Go 9-1, get another Florida loss somewhere, and hope for Notre Dame to lose of Clemson to drop another game, and it’s in.
– Finished. Done. Let’s go take a steam
– The Group of Five hopefuls
– Unbeaten College Football Playoff contenders
NEXT: The unbeaten College Football Playoff contenders …