Matchups determine games. This season’s College Football Playoff will be no different than others in that respect.
It’s possible to have a favorable matchup in one round and be severely outmatched in the next. Last year’s national runner-up TCU is the perfect example. After defeating Michigan in the playoff semifinal the Horned Frogs gave us the most lopsided national title in recent memory. TCU lost to Georgia, 65-7.
We don’t expect any blowouts to that degree in this season’s tournament, but matchups will still determine the games.
In terms of playing styles, the semifinals should produce the best of the scheme and slugfest approach. Michigan and Alabama like to bully their opponents. Washington and Texas like to make their opponents look lost with schematic advantage.
Let’s look at who might win potential national championship matchups.