Oct 19, 2026 · 45 min
Miami claims No. 1 as Notre Dame’s playoff case wobbles
Hour 2: Are both Notre Dame and BYU threats to win the CFP?
The college football debate turns on whether Miami’s ascent and BYU’s upset have reshaped the playoff field more than Alabama’s struggles have narrowed it.
- 1BYU’s upset leaves Notre Dame’s playoff hopes dependent on its upcoming test against Miami.
- 2Alabama’s back-to-back losses and difficult schedule have pushed its playoff prospects toward the margins.
- 3Green Bay’s win over Dallas raises a central question: contender status or evidence of deeper Cowboys problems?
Don't miss
Miami reaches the top ranking for the first time since 2002, with Notre Dame identified as its defining upcoming test.
The brief
Green Bay’s win over Dallas sparks a debate over whether the Packers are emerging as a real contender or merely benefiting from the Cowboys’ continuing problems.
The college football conversation centers on BYU’s upset of Notre Dame, a missed pass-interference call and the importance of Notre Dame’s upcoming game against Miami.
Alabama’s consecutive regular-season losses, road struggles and difficult remaining schedule leave the Crimson Tide with diminishing playoff prospects.
Josh Allen’s improvised touchdown pass earns praise before the panel compares the Texans and Rams, separating team strength from C.J. Stroud’s individual play.
Miami reaches No. 1 for the first time since 2002, while Michael Irvin celebrates the rise and Stephen A. Smith points to Notre Dame as the next test.
Books & mentions
Some links are affiliate links — PodLume may earn a commission if you buy.
Weekly email
State of the Pod, every Monday
The week's most-discussed names and stories from podcasts, with the moments behind them. Free, five minutes, unsubscribe in one click.