College football’s championship week has arrived, concluding the regular season and setting the stage for Sunday’s much-anticipated College Football Playoff bracket reveal. The outcomes of Saturday’s games will provide the selection committee with the final results needed to finalize the 12-team postseason field.
The action begins at noon ET with a Big 12 Championship Game rematch between No. 4 Texas Tech and No. 11 BYU. The Red Raiders dominated the first meeting on November 8 with a 29-7 victory, but the Cougars will be seeking revenge in a contest with significant national implications. A win for BYU could dramatically increase the Big 12’s chances of securing two CFP bids, which would be detrimental for bubble teams like Notre Dame.
Also shaping the playoff picture is the SEC Championship Game between No. 3 Georgia and No. 9 Alabama. The matchup is critical for the Crimson Tide; a third loss would likely eliminate them from contention, especially if Georgia secures a decisive win.
The evening features a highly anticipated Big Ten Championship Game between No. 1 Ohio State and No. 2 Indiana. The Heisman Trophy race could be heavily influenced by the performances of Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza and his Ohio State counterpart, Julian Sayin. Simultaneously, the ACC Championship Game will pit Duke against No. 17 Virginia. An upset by the unranked, 7-5 Blue Devils could create an opportunity for two Group of Five teams to enter the CFP field.
Expert Predictions for Championship Weekend:
Big 12 Championship: No. 11 BYU vs. No. 4 Texas Tech (Noon ET, ABC)
In their previous meeting, BYU played conservatively on the road until falling behind significantly and was without a fully healthy LJ Martin. While the Cougars are expected to employ a more aggressive downfield passing attack this time, it may not be enough to overcome the top team in the conference. Texas Tech is poised to pull away in the fourth quarter to claim its first Big 12 title.
Pick: Texas Tech covers.
SEC Championship: No. 3 Georgia vs. No. 9 Alabama (4 p.m. ET, ABC)
Alabama’s offense has slowed since mid-October, failing to score 30 points in its last four games against FBS opponents. This recent lack of rhythm could prevent the fast start that has been crucial in coach Kalen DeBoer’s previous victories over Georgia. The Bulldogs, led by Kirby Smart, are expected to make the necessary adjustments to capitalize on Alabama’s offensive struggles.
Pick: Georgia covers.
Big Ten Championship: No. 2 Indiana vs. No. 1 Ohio State (8 p.m. ET, Fox)
In a clash of strengths, the nation’s top two teams meet with explosive offenses and formidable defenses. This matchup will be the toughest test of the season for both squads. While the elite defenses could make points difficult to come by early on, the game is expected to evolve into a higher-scoring affair than either team’s defensive coordinator would prefer.
Pick: The total score goes over.
ACC Championship: Duke vs. No. 17 Virginia (8 p.m. ET, ABC)
Duke suffered a 34-17 home loss to Virginia on November 15 in what was arguably its worst performance of the season. However, given the volatility of the ACC this year, a reversal of fortunes is plausible. Motivated by critics who question their place in the title game, the Blue Devils are expected to deliver an inspired performance. With one of the nation’s top passers in Darian Mensah and a strategic defensive game plan from coach Manny Diaz, Duke is positioned to challenge Virginia more effectively in the rematch.
Pick: Duke covers the spread.
