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Published on November 13, 2024
Indiana Hoosiers Rank Fifth in CFP and Will Host Alabama in First-Round Game as Seeding Intrigue Grows in 12-Team Playoff FormatSource: Unsplash/ Paolo Aldrighetti

The Indiana Hoosiers, who are sitting on an impressive and historic 10-0 season, now find themselves ranked fifth in the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings. This was announced yesterday evening, as the Hoosiers bask in the upward momentum following their victory over Michigan. The rise in the CFP rankings indicates that the Hoosiers would host a first-round game against Alabama should the playoffs start today, according to WTHR.

Yet, the twist in the tale comes with the revised 12-team playoff format, which would currently see Indiana seeded seventh rather than fifth. This discrepancy stems from the fact that the four top-ranked conference champions automatically receive byes in the first round of the playoff. The Committee has placed Ohio State, Penn State, and Oregon in the coveted spots ahead of Indiana. As per FOX59, "Indiana is expected to be seeded outside the top four because they are not projected to win the Big Ten Conference." It's a notable twist that could place lower-ranked teams in a more advantageous position, pending the outcomes of their respective conferences.

Moving beyond just the rankings, Indiana's on-field performance speaks volumes, particularly with their win against reigning national champion Michigan. This 20-15 triumph not only marked their 10th win but also solidified their place in IU history for single-season victories. Senior quarterback Kurtis Rourke also earned his stripes by throwing for two touchdowns in the matchup, as noted in the college's victory lap on The Daily Hoosier.

Up next for Indiana is a high-stakes game on the road at Ohio State on November 23, a match that can further rattle the CFP rankings and potentially influence the postseason seeding. Notably, the Buckeyes are currently ranked second in the CFP rankings, a fact that sets the stage for an epic pre-playoff clash. Notre Dame's ranking at eighth and a potential seeding of ninth, playing against Tennessee, adds yet another layer of intrigue to the overall playoff narrative. This detail comes compliments of WTHR, which has been following the unfolding drama around these rankings.

The CFP committee will deliver its final judgment on December 8. Until then, teams are competing for playoff spots and the chance to shine on college football’s biggest stage. All eyes are on the Hoosiers, who have earned national attention and raised the stakes for an exciting finish to the CFP season.