The 12-team College Football Playoff is finally here, and experts are making predictions on how it will all play out. As a prediction expert, I’ll share my take on how the teams will match up and which one – including Penn State – has what it takes to go all the way.
In the first round, I predict several close games. Indiana beats Notre Dame due to their strong run defense, while Penn State edges SMU with their explosive offense. Texas beats Clemson in a low-scoring rock fight win, thanks to their trusty defense. Ohio State bounces back from their Michigan loss and defeats Tennessee.
The quarterfinals see Oregon fall to Ohio State after showing weaknesses in the Big Ten championship game. Texas knocks out Arizona State due to their imposing defensive front. Georgia defeats Indiana behind their nasty defense, while Penn State beats Boise State with Ashton Jeanty’s impressive performance.
In the semifinals, Ohio State and Penn State face off against each other. I’m sticking to my original gut reaction: Ohio State will take home the title. However, I believe Penn State has a legitimate shot at making it to the national championship game. With high-end playmakers and a favorable draw, they’re within reach of greatness.
Ohio State is the most talented team in the country, but don’t count out Tennessee. The Buckeyes were preseason favorites for a reason, now well-rested after not playing in the Big Ten championship game, and ready to use their Michigan loss as motivation.
Stay tuned for updated picks after the first round when this bracket surely goes up in smoke.
Source: https://www.pennlive.com/pennstatefootball/2024/12/college-football-playoff-bracket-predictions-can-penn-state-make-a-national-championship-run.html