Countdown to College Football Kickoff 2015, Day 1: Our picks for number one

Jan 12, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes cheerleaders perform on the sidelines during the game against the Oregon Ducks for the 2015 CFP National Championship Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Ryan Tabb – Staff Writer

Ryan takes a close look at the Pac-12 during the year, but oddly enough, he has no teams from his favorite conference in this year’s final four. No one can accuse him of west coast bias. Follow Ryan at @rytabb in the Twitterverse.

Four Playoff Teams: Ohio State, TCU, Alabama, Michigan State
National Championship Game: Ohio State vs. TCU
National Champion: Ohio State

"“Sure, Ohio State is the safe bet this season, but it is hard to bet against them. They return so much firepower that they can couple with young talent, and have a strong coaching staff that youth in certain areas shouldn’t be a big worry. They have the best running back in the nation, and security at quarterback, now knowing that one injury there won’t ruin their season. Last year their defense ranked a respectable 26th in points allowed, while they posted an average 44.8 points of their own (good for 5th in the country). Their schedule is an easy one, as is usually the case — but this makes them a near lock for the playoff where they will need only two near-flawless showings. Ohio State isn’t the best team in the country. They aren’t even the most complete — but they have enough going for them that Urban Meyer and his team will likely be celebrating at the end of bowl season.”"

Next: Charlie DiSturco