Breaking down the CFP Selection Committee’s Top 6

The College Football Playoff Selection Committee revealed its first 2021 poll, ranking the top contenders for the four-team playoff. After Week Nine, the top CFP contenders include Georgia, Alabama, Michigan State, Oregon, Ohio State and Cincinnati.

As the favorites to advance toward a national championship, these six teams warrant a deeper dive. Take a look at what the CFP contenders brings to the table after Week Nine.

1. Georgia Bulldogs (8-0)

The Georgia Bulldogs defense has paved the way in 2021, making them the CFP’s top contenders through Week Nine. Ranked No. 2 in the NCAA in yards allowed, Georgia features many high-end prospects who allowed their first 300-yard game last week. They have given up just six touchdowns over eight games, allowing 3.76 yards per play. The offense has left questions, particular at quarterback with the carousel of JT Daniels and Stetson Bennett unsettled. However, with many injury returns on the horizon, the outlook can only improve with added chemistry and experience across the board.

Remaining schedule: Missouri, at Tennessee, Charleston Southern, at Georgia Tech.

2. Alabama Crimson Tide (7-1)

Alabama’s young squad has experience growing pains on both sides of the ball. However, Nick Saban continues to preach focus and progress throughout the SEC schedule. Despite struggles – at least by Alabama standards – the offense ranks No. 10 and defense ranks No. 13 in the country. The early loss against a Texas A&M without its starting quarterback hurt, but the season’s fate could rest in Atlanta, Georgia, where Georgia awaits the SEC West champion in the conference title game.

Remaining schedule: LSU, New Mexico State, Arkansas, at Auburn.

3. Michigan State Spartans (8-0)

In year two under Mel Tucker, Michigan State has come to life. Heisman candidate Kenneth Walker III and fellow transfer Payton Thorne have led the way for a renaissance for the Spartans. Ranked No. 103 in the country, the defense surrenders plenty yardage, but has only allowed 17 touchdowns. With Ohio State and Penn State left on the schedule, the bend-not-break defense will be put to the ultimate test before a potential Big Ten championship chance.

Remaining schedule: at Purdue, Maryland, at Ohio State, at Penn State.

4. Oregon Ducks (7-1)

Oregon started hot with a road win over Big Ten favorite Ohio State. A rough run, accompanied by bad injury luck, led many to rule out Oregon following its loss against unranked Stanford. However, an offensive resurgence by Anthony Browns and Travis Dye has them back in the conversation, leaving their relationship with Ohio State up for debate.

Remaining schedule: at Washington, Washington State, at Utah, Oregon State.

5. Ohio State Buckeyes (7-1)

Ohio State fell on the wrong side of the scoreboard at home against Oregon but rebounded well in October. The high-powered offense has returned to No. 1 in the country, gaining 548.1 yards per game with 43 offensive touchdowns. The continued improvement of CJ Stroud, coupled with the emergence of freshman running back TreVeyon Henderson has propelled them back into national championship contention.

Remaining schedule: at Nebraska, Purdue, Michigan State, at Michigan.

6. Cincinnati Bearcats (8-0)

Cincinnati has not separated themselves on the scoreboard as often as many experts would like. Strength of schedule will pave the way – or cut off the path – for the Bearcats. A road win over Notre Dame trumps anything Group of Five schools have brought to the table in recent years, but Indiana’s fall from glory does not help Cincinnati’s resume. Luke Fickell’s squad maintains hope for a CFP spot, but must remain perfect.

Remaining schedule: Tulsa, at USF, SMU, at East Carolina.