The college football postseason is heating up as the 2024-2025 season draws to a close, with pivotal matchups shaking up rankings and playoff pictures. Following Saturday night's dramatic performance, Alabama has reclaimed its spot as the No. 1 team in the USA TODAY Sports NCAA Re-Rank 1-134. This marks Alabama’s ascent from the previous week’s No. 5 position, taking the lead from Georgia, which has now slipped to No. 5.
The Crimson Tide’s victory over Georgia, described as ‘the best by any team so far this season’ by USA TODAY, showcased their strength, particularly after already securing wins against formidable opponents like Wisconsin. This decisive game not only shifted Alabama’s rankings but also squeezed Georgia behind other title contenders, including No. 2 Texas, No. 3 Ohio State, and No. 4 Tennessee. Texas remains just slightly behind Alabama, bolstered by quality wins against Michigan and Mississippi State.
Georgia's high-quality loss reinforces their position as the highest ranked one-loss team, outpacing several unbeaten squads including No. 6 Oregon and No. 10 Missouri. Meanwhile, Mississippi's playoff dreams appear dim after their recent loss to Kentucky, dropping them from No. 6 to No. 15;
“With every game counting more with each passing week, teams like Mississippi will have to rally to stay relevant as the season winds down,” remarked analyst Jenna Miller.
Over on the Division III side, Championship Sunday is fast approaching with the highlight of every fall football calendar—the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl. On January 5, Mount Union and North Central will face off at Houston's Shell Energy Stadium at 8:03 p.m. This matchup sees Mount Union appearing for their record 23rd Stagg Bowl, where they have celebrated 13 national championships, the last coming in 2017.
North Central has made their fifth consecutive appearance, having claimed national titles back-to-back in 2019 and 2022. The anticipation is palpable as both teams arrive loaded with talent. Mount Union’s offensive roster features senior running back Tyler Echeverry and defensive standout Rossy Moore. North Central counters with quarterback Luke Lehnen and last season's championship MVP, Joe Sacco. These players will be pivotal as they vie for the top NCAA Division III honor.
The NCAA has developed a 40-team championship bracket for the 2024 tournament, officially unveiled on November 17. While 28 of these teams secured automatic qualifications, the remainder were chosen at large by the DIII Football Committee. The postseason kicked off with games on November 23, showcasing teams determined to secure their path to the championship.
Throughout the tournament, Mount Union and North Central have consistently showcased dominant performances, both advancing through several rounds. Recent outcomes, including Mount Union's decisive win against Carnegie Mellon and North Central’s victory over Springfield, solidify their titles as heavyweights within Division III football.
“Every moment counts as we enter tournament play,” stated North Central Coach Jeff Thorne. “Our goal is to finish strong and secure another title.”
Fans and players alike are gearing up for what promises to be exciting playoff battles, with the intensity ramping up each week. Track-and-field events culminate with the championship games set to be highly competitive across both divisions. With the postseason already reshaping perceptions and potential, every match will undoubtedly be one to watch.
Looking at the broader postseason picture, it’s thrilling to witness how quickly standings can change and rivalries ignite as teams fight for glory. From the high drama of deciding playoff spots to the intense build-up for championship games, this college football postseason is sure to be memorable.
Expectations are sky-high for the final matchups and rankings as teams make their final pushes for bowl games and playoff slots.