Sports

These Teams Are The College Football Playoff Contenders

(Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images)

David Hookstead Sports And Entertainment Editor
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College football is finally back, and it’s never too early to break down the teams capable of making the playoff.

Things get crazy every season, but there are always a few teams that are clearly above the rest. Let’s break down a few teams.

Alabama:

The Crimson Tide has plenty of talent at every position this year. With a very favorable schedule after the week one match-up with Florida State and Nick Saban as head coach, the Tide should be a lock for the playoff.

(Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

Head coach Nick Saban (L) and offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian of the Alabama Crimson Tide stand on the sideline during the second half of the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium on January 9, 2017 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)

Ohio State:

The Buckeyes have a great coach in Urban Meyer, a senior star quarterback in JT Barrett and athletes all over the field. They are the safe bet to win the Big Ten.

Florida State:

How can anybody bet against Jimbo Fisher and the Seminoles? Even a loss in the opening week to Alabama won’t be a death sentence for FSU’s playoff chances.

Wisconsin:

They’re not the most talented team on this list, but they have a cupcake schedule outside of a couple games. Their entire season could boil down to playing Ohio State or Penn State in the Big Ten title game. They find themselves here more due to their odds than overall talent, but make no mistake, they can play some ball. If they stay healthy, I like their chances.

(Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

MADISON, WI – SEPTEMBER 17: Alex Hornibrook #12 of the Wisconsin Badgers drops back to pass in the fourth quarter against the Georgia State Panthers at Camp Randall Stadium on September 17, 2016 in Madison, Wisconsin. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Penn State:

Trace McSorley is one of the best quarterbacks in America. They can suffer a loss, but wins over Michigan or Ohio State and a win in the Big Ten title game will likely get them in.

USC:

Has America ever fallen in love with a quarterback quicker than Sam Darnold? The guy has a bazooka attached to his body, and he has the team primed for a major season.

Oklahoma:

Losing coach Bob Stoops early in the season isn’t great, but with Baker Mayfield under center, the Sooners could get into the playoff.

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