2025-26 College Football Playoff schedule
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Duke played tougher competition (obviously), but the overall ratings and strength of record indicate JMU’s 11-1 finish against its schedule was considerably more impressive than Duke’s 7-5 against its harder schedule. Beating a top-25 Virginia team would close the gap, but probably not by enough.
Despite enjoying their first 10-win season in school history, Vanderbilt are on the outside looking in on the College Football Playoff. For star quarterback and Heisman Trophy candidate Diego Pavia, it goes deeper than having two losses.
Miami Hurricanes' head coach Mario Cristobal joined Bear Bets and gave Miami's case to make the College Football Playoff!
There's intrigue surrounding the ACC Championship, too. If Duke upends Virginia, there's a chance two Group of Five champions appear in the final bracket for the first time. James Madison needs to take care of business in the Sun Belt to ensure a spot in the conversation should the Blue Devils make things interesting.