Answering the biggest potential ‘What Ifs’ of the playoff picture
What if LSU beats Alabama (11-1), Auburn beats Georgia (12-1) and Georgia beats LSU (12-1)?
What a nightmare this would be for the selection committee. The SEC Champion, Georgia, is definitely in and likely atop the bracket. As for LSU and Alabama, it would depend on what happened in each conference across the country.
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In my opinion, the SEC and Big Ten Champions with one loss or less get an automatic invite to the playoff. Assuming Clemson goes undefeated again since they play in the highly disappointing and underachieving ACC, the Tigers will also have a spot.
Now it would leave the fourth spot between LSU, Alabama, the Big 12 Champion and PAC-12 Champion. Under these circumstances, the Crimson Tide would miss their first College Football Playoff.
Amidst a lengthy debate of assumingly razor-thin margins, the criteria of conference championships should go into effect based on prior insights given by former Committee Chairmen.
Using previous years as examples, one may think LSU or Alabama would get the nod. But I think it should be the champion of the Big 12, especially if it is Oklahoma with a loss or less with that loss being to rival Texas.
I would also imagine discussions arising for an immediate expansion to eight teams if the committee has to deal with this level of chaos.
Playoff Picks: Clemson vs Oklahoma and Georgia vs Ohio State.