Overview

• Indiana replaces Illinois in the projected CFP field after the Hoosiers' head-to-head win.
• Texas Tech takes Utah's spot following a road victory in Salt Lake City.
• Tulane remains the Group of Five pick despite a loss, holding the AAC edge with two Power Four wins.
• Most top contenders remain steady, with noted slips by Clemson and Alabama.
• The upcoming weekend is framed as the first major inflection point, with clarity expected on Penn State, Oregon, and whether Alabama can re-enter the race by beating Georgia.