Kirk Herbstreit reveals first College Football Playoff predictions

Kirk Herbstreit revealed his first predictions for this week’s College Football Playoff rankings. Prior to their release this coming Tuesday, Herbstreit is trying his luck — attempting to predict the correct four teams.

While Herbstreit’s rankings may not feature any shockers, it’s a plausible take on the top teams in the nation. The rankings will change plenty of times before the College Football Playoff is set, but here’s how Herbstreit sees in following Week 9.

Kirk Herbstreit’s College Football Playoff Picks:

1) Georgia Bulldogs

2) Alabama Crimson Tide

3) Ohio State Buckeyes

4) Cincinnati Bearcats

First 2 Out

5) Michigan State Spartans

6) Oklahoma Sooners

To begin, it’s no surprise Herbstreit’s top team is the Georgia Bulldogs. When the College Football Playoff rankings drop, Kirby Smart’s squad will be the unquestioned No. 1 team. Moreover, it’s following Georgia where things really begin to get interesting.

Herbstreit has the Alabama Crimson Tide as his No. 2 team in the rankings. After losing to Texas A&M, many dropped Nick Saban’s team down in their list of top teams. However, Herbstreit still ranks them above other undefeated teams — such as Cincinnati, Michigan State and Oklahoma.

Another selection that may cause some controversy is Herbstreit’s ranking of the Ohio State Buckeyes as his No. 3 team in the country. The Buckeyes suffered an early season defeat to Oregon, who’s nowhere to be found on the list. Additionally, they’re currently behind Michigan State in the Big Ten standings — but they’re ranked higher than the Spartans here.

Finally, Herbstreit chose the Cincinnati Bearcats over undefeated Michigan State and Oklahoma. All three teams make a compelling case, but having three undefeated teams battle it out for No. 4 while two one-loss teams are selected would be sure to cause some controversy.

Kirk Herbstreit’s College Football Playoff predictions could very well come true on Tuesday. However, there’s bound to be controversy no matter what happens.