Some early predictions for college football playoffs

For the first time ever, the college football playoffs will include 12 teams.  The pairings and brackets have finally been set—and now off we go.

It started out, seemingly innocently enough, in the pleasant early weeks of September. But now, more than three months later, surviving the grueling bloodbath of injuries, heart-breaking defeats, dramatic victories and player personnel changes, we are down to the final 12 schools.

12 universities now still eligible to be declared 2024 National Champions

Here are the matchups…and, along with them, some predictions to keep you nice and toasty as you warm yourself next to the holiday fireplace.

ROUND ONE:

Texas over Clemson: Great matchup! Clemson has some momentum after a dramatic victory over SMU in the ACC Conference Championship game. But the Longhorns are loaded and angry after losing to Georgia. Take Texas.

Ohio State over Tennessee:  Another great potential game. I got the Buckeyes to roll in this one.

Penn State over SMU:  Penn State has struggled to win the “big games.”  This time, they get over the hump with a round win over the Mustangs.

Indiana over Notre Dame: A great in-state rivalry game. Notre Dame will be the pick by most, but I have watched this Hoosier club this year and they are for real. Upset special!  Indiana marches on.

QUARTER FINALS:

Texas over Arizona State:  An amazing Cinderella season for the Sun Devils comes to a close. But it will be much closer than people think. Texas in a squeaker.

Ohio State over Oregon:  Buckeyes get revenge from earlier loss and knock off the dreaded number-one-ranked and previously undefeated Ducks.

Boise State over Penn State: Boise in an upset. Too much of my guy Ashton Jeanty.

Georgia over Indiana: Hoosiers put up the good fight, but Bulldogs, with their size and depth, edge them out.

SEMI FINALS:

Ohio State over Texas:  In a great game, the Buckeyes win it in the final minutes.  A classic matchup, but the Ohio boys move to the championship.

Boise State over Georgia:  Huge upset!  The Boise gang finds a way as Georgia turns over the ball numerous times. On to the championship–and who would’ve thunk it? Go with the kids from Idaho.

National Championship:

Ohio State over Boise State:The clock strikes 12 on Boise State’s incredible Cinderella run.  Too much talent for Ohio State, and they pull away at the end.

There you have it. You might not even have to watch these games. I already told you what will happen. But, just in case, tune in. It should be some real must-see TV,