College Football Playoff 2016: Week 9 New Year's Six Projections

College Football Playoff 2016: Week 9 New Year’s Six Projections

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) attempts to tackle Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

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Oct 29, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Christian Kirk (3) returns a punt for a 70 yard touchdown against the New Mexico State Aggies in the first half at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

Sugar Bowl: Texas A&M (SEC) v. Oklahoma (Big 12)

These former Big 12 rivals met three years ago in the Cotton Bowl, and this time they will likely be matched up in a different New Year’s Six game. Oklahoma has survived two early defeats to Houston and Ohio State to take the lead in the Big 12 race. The Sooners have done so on the strength of their offense, with Joe Mixon handling the bulk of running duties and Baker Mayfield connecting with Dede Westbrook and a deep field of receivers.

Texas A&M lost at Alabama to fall behind in the SEC West race, but Kevin Sumlin’s crew is still on track to earn a major bowl invitation. The Aggies have surged thanks to a former Oklahoma quarterback, Trevor Knight, and the committee could see fit to pit him against his former team. A&M has been far better defensively than the Sooners, holding opponents under 20 points per game on average, and are on pace to win 10 or more games for the first time since 2012.

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