The Texas Longhorns’ narrow 22-19 overtime loss to the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship Game has significant implications for their postseason trajectory. This defeat, their second to Georgia this season, positions Texas outside the top four in the College Football Playoff rankings, thus forfeiting a first-round bye. Consequently, the Longhorns are expected to host a first-round playoff game at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, with their seeding—either No. 5 or No. 6—pending the final CFP rankings.
Despite the setback, Texas’ advancement to the SEC Championship Game in their inaugural conference season is a historic accomplishment. Notably, the Longhorns achieved this milestone ahead of Texas A&M, which has been part of the SEC since 2012.
Looking ahead, the Longhorns must regroup and prepare for their upcoming playoff matchup. Hosting a game in Austin provides a valuable opportunity to leverage home-field advantage as they aim to progress further in the postseason. Addressing the issues that led to their recent defeats, particularly turnovers and defensive lapses, will be crucial for Texas to enhance their performance in the playoffs.
The official rankings will be released on Sunday evening.
College Football Playoff final rankings release date:
Date: Sunday, Dec. 7
What time is final CFP rankings release?
Start Time: 11 AM CT
How to watch College Football Playoff Selection Sunday rankings show
TV Channel: ESPN
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How to watch College Football Playoff Selection Sunday rankings show on livestream
Streaming: ESPN+
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Texas Longhorns football CFP rankings projection
It’s pretty clear the Longhorns are in. Either No. 5 or No. 6 spot seems to be the likely landing spot for the Longhorns. USA TODAY Sports projected where the Longhorns might land in two scenarios if they lost to Georgia. One scenario has the Longhorns hosting Arizona state, then moving onto SMU in the Peach Bowl in Atlanta. While the second scenario has Texas matching up with Arizona State again, but playing Clemson instead in Atlanta. Both scenarios assume losses by Texas and Oregon. If only Texas loses, they are projected to earn the No. 5 seed in the playoff bracket.
How many teams in College Football Playoff 2024?
For the first time, there will be 12 teams participating in the College Football Playoffs. There are five automatic bids for each of the Power Four conference champions and one to the highest-ranked Group of Five champion. The remaining seven slots are given to the seven at-large teams.
How does the College Football Playoff format work?
The top four seeds will be on a bye as the CFP kicks off. The next four highest-seeded teams will host on-campus playoff games as follows:
- No. 5 vs No. 12, winner will play No. 4
- No. 6 vs No. 11, winner will play No. 3
- No. 7 vs No. 10, winner will play No. 2
- No. 8 vs No. 9, winner will play No. 1
2024 College Football Playoff rankings release show dates:
- Sunday, December 8: The final show airs at 11 am CT on ESPN. The final show is also known as Selection Day, when the committee announces the 12-team bracket, game locations, and sites.