The official College Football Playoff selection announcement

Alabama's CFP Spot Depends on SMU vs. Clemson ACC Championship Game

Dec 4, 2024, 12:11 AM

The College Football Playoff (CFP) field for the 2024 season is nearly set, with the final spot hinging on the outcome of the ACC Championship game between SMU and Clemson. If SMU wins, Alabama is virtually guaranteed the last at-large spot. However, should Clemson upset SMU, the committee faces a decision between SMU, Alabama, and potentially other teams like Miami, Ole Miss, or South Carolina for the final playoff berth. The CFP selection committee, led by Chair Warde Manuel, has indicated that SMU could potentially fall below Alabama if they lose to Clemson, depending on the performance in the game. The debate centers on whether the committee would favor another SEC team or uphold the value of conference championships.