Can Penn State Still Reach the CFP? A Look at the Nittany Lions' Path to the Playoff
The Nittany Lions have had a rollercoaster season, with both exhilarating highs and crushing lows. Despite a few stumbles, Penn State remains a formidable force in the Big Ten, and the question on everyone's mind is: Can they still reach the College Football Playoff?
While the path ahead is challenging, it's not impossible. Here's a breakdown of what Penn State needs to do to make a run at the CFP:
1. Dominate the Rest of the Big Ten
Penn State has already proven their ability to beat top opponents, but they need to continue their dominance within the conference. They have tough matchups against Michigan State, Michigan, and Ohio State remaining. Winning these games is crucial for both their conference title hopes and overall playoff resume.
2. Keep Winning the Close Ones
Penn State has shown resilience, overcoming deficits and finding ways to win close games. This ability to "find a way" will be crucial in the remaining games. Close wins against strong opponents will significantly bolster their playoff case.
3. Benefit from Chaos
The college football landscape is unpredictable. Even with a perfect record, Penn State needs some help from other teams. Upsets in the SEC, ACC, and Pac-12 could significantly boost their chances of sneaking into the top four.
4. The Strength of Schedule Argument
Penn State boasts a formidable schedule, which could work in their favor when it comes to playoff selection. Their non-conference win against Auburn holds weight, and their Big Ten matchups against top opponents will further strengthen their resume.
The Realistic Outlook
While the Nittany Lions' CFP aspirations remain alive, reaching the playoff will be a tough task. They need to perform at their best, capitalize on opportunities, and get some help along the way. The odds are stacked against them, but if they can overcome the obstacles and finish strong, they could find themselves in the playoff conversation.
The final weeks of the season will be crucial for Penn State. Their performance in these critical games will determine whether their CFP dreams become reality. Fans will be watching intently as the Nittany Lions fight for their playoff spot.