Rivalry Week Shakes Up College Football Bowl Projections Before Final Selections

College football’s postseason picture is facing a massive shakeup. Rivalry Week, culminating on November 26, 2025, is set to decide final bowl bids. Several key matchups will directly impact the final college football bowl projections.

The outcomes will determine which teams secure coveted spots in major games. According to ESPN, the volatility this weekend is higher than any other point in the season.

Key Matchups With Major Postseason Implications

Traditional rivalries carry extra weight this final weekend. A single win or loss can alter a team’s destination dramatically. Conference standings and tie-breakers are also on the line.

Upsets are common in these emotionally charged games. An underdog victory can instantly invalidate earlier forecasts.

Analysts are watching several specific games closely. The results will create a ripple effect across the entire bowl landscape.

How Selection Committees Evaluate Rivalry Week Results

Committees weigh late-season performance heavily. A strong showing in a rivalry game can significantly boost a team’s resume. Momentum is a tangible factor in final placements.

Conversely, a poor performance can see a team fall in the pecking order. Strength of schedule and quality of the opponent are also critical.

According to Associated Press reports, committee members watch these games with particular attention. Head-to-head results often break ties between similarly ranked teams.

The final college football bowl projections will solidify after the last whistle blows on November 26. Expect surprises and dramatic shifts as the postseason map is finally drawn.

Info at your fingertips

What is the most important factor in bowl selection?

Win-loss record is the primary factor. Committee members also heavily consider strength of schedule and performance in the final games of the season.

When are the final bowl matchups officially announced?

The official selections are announced after all conference championship games conclude. This typically happens in early December.

Can a team with a losing record go to a bowl game?

No, a team must finish the regular season with at least six wins to be eligible for a bowl game. There are no exceptions to this NCAA rule.

How does Rivalry Week change bowl projections?

It causes the most significant changes all season. Upsets in key rivalry games can completely reshape the projected bowl matchups for multiple teams.

Do all conferences have bowl game tie-ins?

Yes, most conferences have pre-arranged agreements with specific bowl games. These tie-ins determine which bowls can select teams from each conference.