After the first week of college football, USA TODAY Sports revised its bowl projections, catapulting LSU into the College Football Playoff and pushing Ole Miss out of the mix.
Week 1 Upsets Redefine Playoff Picture
LSU, which entered the season projected behind the SEC’s traditional powerhouses, delivered a statement victory over Clemson, a result that underscored its ability to compete with the nation’s elite.
Meanwhile, Oregon—once hailed as a top contender—stumbled against Boise State, a loss that sent shockwaves through the early standings and highlighted the volatility of the schedule.
The path ahead includes a Week 3 showdown between LSU and Ole Miss, a rematch that could further cement LSU’s playoff résumé while offering Ole Miss a chance to rebound.
With several marquee programs yet to face significant tests, the coming weeks will provide a clearer picture of which teams truly merit a spot in the playoff conversation.