Alabama Leaps Notre Dame in Latest College Football Playoff Rankings Shakeup

The College Football Playoff selection committee released its new top-25 list on Tuesday. In a surprising move, Alabama jumped Notre Dame to claim the No. 9 spot. Notre Dame fell to No. 10. Both teams won their games last weekend.

This switch could significantly impact the final playoff bracket. The committee’s decision highlights the intense debate over team strength and resume at this crucial stage.

Committee Chair Explains the Close Call

CFP chair Hunter Yurachek addressed the flip shortly after the rankings were public. He called the Alabama-Notre Dame debate one of the strongest in recent years. The committee reviewed both teams’ performances from the past weekend closely.

According to Yurachek, Alabama’s road win at Auburn tipped the scales. The committee was impressed by Alabama’s strong first half and a gutsy fourth-down call. Notre Dame’s road win at Stanford was also strong, but not enough to hold position.

Playoff Implications for Both Teams Remain Fluid

This ranking change has immediate consequences for the playoff picture. As it stands, both teams are projected to make the 12-team field. However, their final spots are not secure yet.

Conference championship games this weekend will cause more movement. Alabama plays for the SEC title. Notre Dame does not have a game. Results elsewhere, like the Big 12 championship, could still knock the Irish out. Every position is critical with the final selection on Sunday.

The swap between Alabama and Notre Dame proves every week matters in the playoff chase. This latest college football playoff rankings shift sets the stage for a dramatic championship weekend. The final bracket will soon reveal the true cost of this decision.

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Why did Alabama jump Notre Dame?

The selection committee was impressed by Alabama’s road win in a tough rivalry game at Auburn. They noted the team’s strong start and a key fourth-down touchdown. This narrowly outweighed Notre Dame’s own road victory at Stanford.

Are both teams still in playoff position?

Yes. Currently, the No. 9 and No. 10 spots would both qualify for the new 12-team playoff. Their final seeding, however, is not locked in and could change after conference championships.

What games could affect them this weekend?

Alabama plays Georgia in the SEC Championship Game. A win could boost them higher. Notre Dame is idle, so they must watch other results, like the Big 12 title game, which could help or hurt their standing.

Who has the head-to-head advantage?

Neither team played each other this season. Notre Dame lost to Miami back in August, a team now ranked just two spots behind them at No. 12. This loss is part of their overall resume evaluation.

When are the final rankings released?

The final College Football Playoff rankings, which set the entire playoff bracket, will be announced on Sunday. This follows all conference championship games on Saturday.