Ohio State Holds Firm at No. 1 After Dominant Week 13 Win

The college football playoff picture solidified dramatically after a pivotal Week 13. Ohio State strengthened its top-ranked position with a resounding 42-9 victory over Rutgers. The win keeps the Buckeyes’ perfect 11-0 record intact and their playoff destiny firmly in their own hands.

Meanwhile, the Oregon Ducks delivered a knockout blow to USC’s championship hopes. Oregon’s 42-27 win reshuffles the at-large bid conversation and eliminates the Trojans from serious contention. According to analysis from ESPN, the results have created a clearer path for several top-tier teams.

Playoff Contenders Separate Themselves From The Pack

Ohio State’s defense continues to be historically good. The unit allows a mere 7.22 points per game on average. That defensive prowess was on full display against a gritty Rutgers squad.

The game was closer at halftime with a 14-3 score. The Buckeyes’ offense then found its rhythm in the second half. They scored touchdowns on four consecutive drives to put the game out of reach decisively.

Out west, Oregon executed a near-perfect game plan. They controlled the line of scrimmage against USC and forced critical turnovers. The Ducks’ fourth straight win in the series marks a significant shift in Pac-12 power dynamics.

The New Playoff Math and Remaining Paths

The top four seeds now appear relatively locked in. Ohio State, Indiana, Texas A&M, and Georgia have built strong resumes. Each controls their conference championship fate heading into rivalry week.

Oregon’s victory was the most consequential for the bubble. Moving to 10-1 gives the Ducks a compelling at-large argument. Their win over a then-top-15 USC team is a major bullet point for the selection committee.

USC’s loss is effectively a death knell for its playoff dreams. The Trojans fell to 8-2 and out of the top 10. Their focus now shifts to securing a prestigious New Year’s Six bowl game instead.

Ohio State now faces its final regular-season test against Michigan. A win there all but guarantees the Buckeyes a No. 1 seed in the playoff, cementing their dominant season.

Thought you’d like to know-

Is Ohio State guaranteed a playoff spot?

Nothing is guaranteed until Selection Day. However, an undefeated Ohio State team that wins the Big Ten Championship is a virtual lock for the top seed. Their resume and defensive stats are simply too strong for the committee to ignore.

Can Oregon still make the playoff?

Yes, but their path is narrower. Oregon likely needs to win its final game and then secure the Big Ten Championship. A 12-1 Power Four conference champion Oregon team would be very difficult for the committee to leave out.

Why is USC eliminated from contention?

With two losses, including a decisive one to Oregon, USC lacks the signature win and overall record to compete with other one-loss or undefeated Power Four champions. The committee prioritizes conference titles and USC can no longer win the Big Ten.

Who are the biggest beneficiaries of Week 13?

Oregon is the clear winner, boosting its resume massively. Ohio State also benefited by looking dominant. Georgia and Texas A&M gained as well, seeing a major competitor in USC fall out of their way.

What is the biggest game left for playoff implications?

The Ohio State vs. Michigan rivalry game has enormous stakes. It will likely decide the Big Ten East champion and a playoff berth. The SEC Championship between Georgia and Texas A&M is equally massive for seeding.