While bracketology is traditionally associated with college basketball, the introduction of the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) has made it increasingly relevant for college football fans. In anticipation of the 2025 season, Sports Illustrated is going all out with bracket-making to highlight the potential teams, players, coaches, and matchups that could define the upcoming season. From a thrilling Week Zero opener in Ireland featuring Iowa State against Kansas State to the final conference title game, there’s much to discuss.
This season, the CFP will implement significant changes, including a straight seeding of teams based on the selection committee’s rankings and the possibility for multiple teams from the same conference to receive first-round byes. These modifications are expected to enhance the excitement of postseason games and provide a clearer path to the coveted golden trophy. As fans eagerly await the national title game set for January 19 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, let’s dive into our comprehensive look at the possible playoff brackets.
Introducing the Perfect Bracket, our best attempt at forecasting the 2025 postseason landscape. Based on our analysis, here are the teams poised to secure automatic berths, clinch first-round byes, and potentially reach the national championship game:
Penn StateTexasClemsonOhio StateNotre DameGeorgiaAlabamaArizona StateLSUIndianaOregonBoise StateThe first round of the CFP features intriguing matchups that could shake up predictions:
No. 12 Boise State at No. 5 Notre Dame: The winner will face No. 4 Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. Despite being a rematch, Boise State is confident with returning quarterback Maddux Madsen and a strong defense.No. 9 LSU at No. 8 Arizona State: The victor will challenge No. 1 Penn State in the Rose Bowl. LSU's Garrett Nussmeier aims to lead his team to victory with impressive stats from the previous season.No. 11 Oregon at No. 6 Georgia: The winner will advance to face No. 3 Clemson in the Orange Bowl. Oregon’s new quarterback Dante Moore will be tested against a formidable Georgia squad.No. 10 Indiana at No. 7 Alabama: The winner will meet No. 2 Texas in the Sugar Bowl, with Indiana looking to capitalize on their favorable schedule.As we progress to the quarterfinals, the stakes rise significantly:
No. 5 Notre Dame vs No. 4 Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl: A chance for revenge for Notre Dame after last year’s national championship loss.No. 8 Arizona State vs No. 1 Penn State in the Rose Bowl: Penn State intends to replicate the success of recent Big Ten champions.No. 6 Georgia vs No. 3 Clemson in the Orange Bowl: Clemson’s roster revamp could lead to a resurgence in national title contention.No. 7 Alabama vs No. 2 Texas in the Sugar Bowl: Texas aims for a strong playoff run following a close SEC title race.The semifinals could feature:
No. 4 Ohio State vs No. 1 Penn State in the Peach Bowl: A rivalry that adds pressure to both teams.No. 3 Clemson vs No. 2 Texas in the Fiesta Bowl: A potential rematch with crucial implications for both teams.Finally, our predicted national championship matchup is:
No. 1 Penn State vs No. 2 Texas in Miami. With coach James Franklin aiming to silence critics and Steve Sarkisian striving for better red zone efficiency, this game promises to be thrilling.
While the Perfect Bracket showcases the top contenders, the Underdog Bracket highlights teams that have a chip on their shoulder. Programs such as Miami, Texas Tech, and Indiana are eager to prove themselves. The Chaos Bracket emphasizes the unpredictable nature of college football, showcasing teams like Navy, Oklahoma, and Nebraska that could upset the odds.
As discussions about expanding the CFP to a 16-team format heat up, the landscape of college football could drastically change. This potential shift would allow for more at-large bids and give deserving teams a shot at the championship.
The excitement surrounding the 2025 College Football Playoff is palpable, with various brackets offering a glimpse into the future of college football. Whether you’re rooting for traditional powerhouses or cheering for underdogs, this season promises to deliver unforgettable moments.
Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we approach kickoff this fall!
