College Football Playoff Top 25 Projections after Championship Weekend

Dec 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Florida Gators running back Jordan Scarlett (25) is brought down by Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Da'Shawn Hand (9) during the third quarter of the SEC Championship college football game at Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes running back Curtis Samuel (4) celebrates after scoring the game winning touchdown against the Michigan Wolverines in the second overtime at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won the game 30-27 in double overtime.Mandatory Credit: Greg Bartram-USA TODAY Sports /

Ohio State knocked off Michigan in their rivalry game, but an earlier upset by Penn State meant that the Buckeyes stayed home this weekend instead of playing for the Big Ten championship in Indianapolis. Ultimately it might prove to be a boon for the Buckeyes, as they avoid the possibility of sustaining a second loss in a rematch against Wisconsin. While there is no chance to become a conference champ, it might not matter.

Given the College Football Playoff committee’s esteem for Urban Meyer’s team, the Buckeyes could still make the semifinal bracket even without the Big Ten title in their pocket. But they could also end up being this year’s version of TCU in 2014, falling three spots out of the bracket thanks to Penn State’s win in the Big Ten championship. Pasadena seems a more likely destination than Glendale for the Buckeyes.

PROJECTED BOWL DESTINATION: Rose Bowl (January 2)

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