The Big Shift: Oregon Leads 12-Team Playoff, SMU Edges Alabama

In a surprising twist, Southern Methodist University (SMU) snagged the final spot in the newly expanded 12-team College Football Playoff, leaving Alabama out in the cold. The selection committee chose SMU, even though they lost the Atlantic Coast Conference title game, because their overall record was stronger. This marks a new chapter for college football, showcasing that there's no perfect formula for picking a champion. Oregon, the only undefeated team, was seeded first.The tournament kicks off with four first-round games on Dec. 20-21 and wraps up with the national title game in Atlanta on Jan. 20. Georgia, Boise State, and Arizona State also earned first-round byes, along with Oregon. SMU's inclusion meant Clemson stole the 12th seed, creating a tense situation for the remaining seeds and home-field advantages. Georgia, facing a potential quarterback injury, will play in the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 1.