Takeaways from Week 14 of College Football: Ohio State exorcises Michigan, Texas is back from the dead
A Weekend of Redemption and Dramatic Turns in College Football
Rivalry weekend in college football was nothing short of spectacular, delivering intense drama and momentous outcomes. Ohio State not only ended its losing streak against Michigan in a triumphant fashion, but the Longhorns of Texas stirred the playoff waters with a compelling case. Meanwhile, Miami dazzled but remains on the edge of contention.
The Breaking Point
Ohio State decisively dismantled Michigan, ending their losing streak with a performance that reminded fans of their championship pedigree. Ryan Day's strategic pivot away from attempts to simply outmuscle Michigan to executing a balanced, relentless offensive strategy paid off. Julian Sayin threw for 233 yards, and the Buckeyes’ defense stifled Michigan, closing the game with a commanding 20-play drive.
Beneath the Surface
In a season underscored by comebacks and surprises, Texas stood out as a three-loss team that could still punch its ticket to the College Football Playoff. Their nail-biting victory over No. 3 Texas A&M showcased resilience and pushed them into the realm of CFP conversation, despite lingering setbacks from earlier losses. Steve Sarkisian's team capitalized on key opportunities, uplifting their chances as they lobbied passionately for a spot.
The Ripple Effect
Despite a strong finish, Miami’s playoff hopes remain in limbo. Their solid performance, including a win over Notre Dame, doesn't appear to carry enough weight with the selection committee. Meanwhile, conferences face calls to review confusing tiebreaker policies in the wake of chaotic scenarios affecting team standings. With these shake-ups, as Texas and Ohio State climb, fans eagerly await the next CFP rankings and the ensuing twists on Selection Sunday.
