College Football Playoff Top 25 Projections: Week 14

Northwestern solidified its position as the second-best team in the Big Ten West with a convincing 42-7 victory over state rival Illinois on the final weekend of the regular season. The Wildcats ensured that they will remain in the College Football Playoff rankings for another week, and gave themselves a shot at a 10-win season entering their bowl game.

Justin Jackson put up another bold performance on the ground, running for 144 yards and a touchdown. Jeremy Larkin added 71 yards and a score on nine carries, while both Jesse Brown and Jelani Roberts also punched in rushing touchdowns. Clayton Thorsen had a solid day passing, going 13-of-21 for 140 yards with a score and an interception.

While their loss to Duke back in September seems inexplicable, their other two defeats against Wisconsin and Penn State are hardly show-stoppers for the Wildcats. Now Pat Fitzgerald‘s team has a shot at double digits in the win column for the third time in the past six seasons.