When I first started following college football, the excitement around the College Football Playoff Predictions(CFP) always grabbed my attention. Each season brings upsets, new heroes, and bold predictions. This year is no different. Fans are buzzing about the national championship, the SEC Championship Game, and how the transfer portal has reshaped rosters.

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In this post, I’ll share my College Football Playoff predictions for the 2024 season, including who I believe will shine, which teams may surprise us, and how bowl projections like the Cotton Bowl might unfold.

Why College Football Playoff Predictions Matter

For fans like me, predictions aren’t just about numbers; they shape the storylines that keep Saturdays exciting. Programs like Ohio State, Penn State, and Kansas State generate constant debates on whether they can break through to the next level. Meanwhile, underdogs like Arizona State could surprise us.

The PFF College 50 rankings and Bowl Championship Series history show us that top teams usually maintain dominance. Yet, college football always has space for a breakout moment.

Ohio State: A Consistent CFP Contender

Whenever I talk about College Football Playoff predictions, Ohio State is the first name that comes to mind. Their explosive offense and deep recruiting classes keep them in national conversations.

Strengths:

Wide receiver depth, elite quarterback prospects, and a sturdy defensive line.

Weaknesses:

Secondary coverage still looks vulnerable against SEC speed.

Still, I predict Ohio State will once again make it to the national championship picture, even if they face a tough SEC championship winner.

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Penn State: Closing the Gap

While Ohio State often steals the spotlight, Penn State has quietly built a program capable of challenging anyone. Their defense is stacked with NFL-ready talent, and their running backs can dominate late in the season.

Last year, they fell just short, but with the right quarterback play, I believe Penn State can crash the College Football Playoff.

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Arizona State: A Dark Horse Pick

Most people won’t include Arizona State in their College Football Playoff Predictions, but I like to keep an eye on programs going through rebuilding phases. The transfer portal has given the Sun Devils fresh talent, and sometimes a new coaching philosophy sparks unexpected success.

Could they win the Cotton Bowl? It’s a long shot, but bowl projections suggest Arizona State could land in a respectable matchup.

Kansas State: Dangerous in Big Games

Don’t underestimate Kansas State. Their physical run game and disciplined coaching style make them a tricky opponent. They might not reach the national championship, but I see them upsetting a higher-ranked SEC or Big Ten team.

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If bowl projections hold, Kansas State could end up in the Cotton Bowl, which would give them a strong platform for next year.

SEC Championship Game: The Roadblock

Every year, the SEC Championship Game feels like the semi-final for the College Football Playoff Predictions. Whoever wins this clash usually books a direct ticket to the national championship.

Georgia and Alabama remain favorites, but watch out for LSU’s hungry roster. The winner of this game could very well knock out one of the Big Ten giants like Ohio State or Penn State.

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The Transfer Portal Factor

In today’s game, the transfer portal changes everything. Teams can reload almost instantly, turning weaknesses into strengths. For example:

• Ohio State added depth in defense.
• Penn State secured speed at wide receiver.
• Arizona State landed a new quarterback.

Because of the transfer portal, playoff predictions feel more uncertain than ever.

Bowl Projections and Cotton Bowl Outlook

The Cotton Bowl has always been one of my favorite postseason games. Historically, it highlights rising programs. This season, I predict:

• Penn State could land in the Cotton Bowl if they just miss the playoff.
• Arizona State has a slim chance but remains on the radar.
• Kansas State looks like a strong Cotton Bowl candidate.

As for Bowl projections in general, I think the Big Ten vs SEC battles will dominate headlines again.

National Championship Predictions

Here’s my bold prediction:

• Ohio State and an SEC champion (likely Georgia or Alabama) will clash in the national championship.
• Penn State will be just outside the playoff but will use the Cotton Bowl as a statement win.
• A surprise team like Kansas State will pull off a top-10 upset.

Final Thoughts

Making College Football Playoff predictions is both exciting and risky. Still, I believe Ohio State has the best shot at making the national championship, Penn State will prove they belong at the top, and the SEC champion will once again remind everyone why the SEC is the toughest conference.

The road to the College Football Playoff is long, but one thing is certain: this season will be unforgettable.

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