Oct 28, 2026 · 33 min
Klatt maps the playoff field before rankings arrive
Klatt’s New Projected College Football Playoff Bracket & Championship Game Picks
The conference-title races could reshape the first 12-team College Football Playoff picture, with key games separating contenders from the pack.
- 1Klatt’s projected playoff field turns conference championship races into the season’s central selection test.
- 2Ole Miss’s remaining schedule, especially a potential Georgia win, could materially alter the SEC picture.
- 3Ohio State’s quarterback uncertainty raises the stakes for Jeremiah Smith’s Heisman case.
Don't miss
Klatt examines how Ohio State’s expected backup-quarterback situation could influence Jeremiah Smith’s Heisman chances.
The brief
Joel Klatt opens with the questions driving the playoff race: who will throw to Jeremiah Smith, whether Arizona can contend, and which conference contenders deserve early attention.
His projected 12-team field weighs the Big Ten, SEC, Big 12, ACC and Group of 6, with conference championship paths determining who can strengthen or damage a playoff case.
The SEC projection turns on Georgia’s route and Ole Miss’s remaining schedule, especially the consequences of Ole Miss beating Georgia in a pivotal matchup.
Klatt also weighs the significance of Miami–Notre Dame and examines how Ohio State’s expected reliance on a backup quarterback could affect Jeremiah Smith’s Heisman chances.
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