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First-Round College Football Playoff Winners and Losers: Texas, Ohio State, and More
As the College Football Playoff (CFP) continues to evolve with the expansion to 12 teams, the first round of this newly formatted playoff brought a wealth of excitement, drama, and some shocking results. Texas and Ohio State, two teams with massive expectations heading into the postseason, were among the central figures of the weekend, but as with every college football season, there were clear winners and losers throughout the first-round matchups.
Here, we break down the most significant takeaways from the first round of the expanded College Football Playoff, highlighting the success stories and those left disappointed.
Winners
Texas: Back to National Contention
After a few years of rebuilding and promise, Texas emerged victorious in the first round of the College Football Playoff, sending a loud message to the rest of the nation: they are back. The Longhorns, led by head coach Steve Sarkisian, have shown consistent improvement over the past few seasons, and their first-round victory is a testament to the program’s resurgence. Their win was not only dominant but also indicative of the talent and discipline they’ve cultivated under Sarkisian’s leadership.
Key Player: Quinn Ewers
The standout performer in Texas’ triumph was quarterback Quinn Ewers, who demonstrated poise and skill on the biggest stage. Ewers has been inconsistent at times during the regular season, but when the pressure was on, he delivered a masterclass in quarterback play, throwing for multiple touchdowns and managing the offense with remarkable efficiency. Ewers’ performance has solidified his status as one of the top quarterbacks in college football, and with a strong supporting cast, Texas could be a national championship contender for years to come.
Key Moment: The Defense Stands Tall
While much of the focus heading into the game was on the offense, it was Texas’ defense that stole the show. The Longhorns’ defense was relentless, smothering their opponent with a mix of strong pass rushes and a secondary that locked down opposing wide receivers. This defensive performance should give Texas fans a great deal of hope, as championship-caliber teams often need to excel on both sides of the ball.
For Texas, advancing in the playoffs is not just a victory in 2024—it’s a statement that they are a force to be reckoned with in college football, returning to the upper echelons of the sport after a long period of mediocrity.
Ohio State: Redemption for Ryan Day and the Buckeyes
Ohio State entered the College Football Playoff with high expectations and plenty to prove after their heartbreaking loss to Michigan in the regular season. Despite a number of challenges, including a slightly less dominant offense than usual and questions surrounding their ability to perform in big games, the Buckeyes were able to seize the moment and secure a victory in the first round.
Key Player: Marvin Harrison Jr.
One of the major factors in Ohio State’s win was the performance of their star wide receiver, Marvin Harrison Jr. The son of the legendary NFL receiver, Harrison put on a clinic, showcasing why he is considered one of the best players in college football. His ability to make acrobatic catches, create separation, and consistently find the end zone was a big difference-maker for the Buckeyes. His performance solidified his status as a top NFL prospect and a key player for Ohio State as they continue their championship push.
Key Moment: A Stifling Defense
While Ohio State’s offense was solid, it was their defense that proved to be the game-changer. The Buckeyes’ defensive line dominated the trenches, and their secondary was locked in, making it difficult for their opponent to establish any sort of rhythm. In a playoff setting, where matchups are critical and the margin for error is razor-thin, Ohio State’s defense showed that they have what it takes to go all the way. With future NFL talent across the defensive unit, the Buckeyes look like a balanced team capable of competing for the national title.
For Ohio State, the first-round win was not just a victory; it was an exclamation point on their ability to perform when it matters most. After some critics questioned head coach Ryan Day’s ability to get the job done in big games, Ohio State’s dominant first-round performance showed that they are still a top contender in college football.
The Pac-12’s Presence in the Playoff: A Banner Year for the Conference
While Texas and Ohio State were the headliners, another clear winner in the first round of the College Football Playoff was the Pac-12, which had a remarkable showing in the expanded playoff field. With Washington, Oregon, and USC all making the field, the conference has proven that it belongs among the nation’s elite, with multiple teams capable of making deep playoff runs.
Washington, led by quarterback Michael Penix Jr., and Oregon, under coach Dan Lanning, both advanced with dominant wins. Their performances not only showcase the strength of the Pac-12 but also highlight a shift in college football power dynamics. For years, the Pac-12 had been overlooked, with many believing the SEC and Big Ten were the two dominant conferences. However, with these high-powered offenses and tough defenses, the Pac-12’s strength was evident in the first round.
Key Player: Michael Penix Jr.
Penix Jr., a seasoned quarterback with NFL potential, had an exceptional game, showcasing his leadership, arm strength, and poise under pressure. His play has turned Washington into a legitimate title contender, and if the Huskies continue to perform at this level, they could very well find themselves in the national title conversation.
Losers
Alabama: Is This the End of the Saban Era?
Alabama, under Nick Saban, has been a fixture in the College Football Playoff since its inception, but their first-round exit in 2024 raised questions about the future of the program. Alabama’s loss wasn’t just a disappointment; it was a reminder that the Crimson Tide are no longer the juggernaut they once were.
While Alabama’s defense played well in stretches, their offense struggled to find consistency. Quarterback Jalen Milroe, who had flashes of brilliance during the regular season, was unable to elevate the offense when it mattered most. The lack of a dominant passing game and the inability to establish a consistent rhythm on offense doomed Alabama in the first round.
For Saban and his program, this loss represents a significant turning point. For years, Alabama’s dominance was almost taken for granted, but with the rise of other programs like Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas, Alabama may need to reassess its future and whether it can maintain its place among college football’s elite.
Michigan: Struggling to Keep Pace
Michigan, which had an impressive regular season and entered the playoff as one of the favorites, experienced a tough loss in the first round. The Wolverines had a strong defense and a solid running game, but their offense struggled against an elite defense, and they were unable to keep pace in a high-pressure playoff environment.
Key Issue: Quarterback Play
J.J. McCarthy, Michigan’s quarterback, failed to live up to expectations. The lack of big plays in the passing game hindered Michigan’s ability to compete, and despite a strong run game, they were unable to exploit their opponent’s defense. Michigan will need to make adjustments if they want to return to the playoff in future seasons and make a deeper run.
The Big 12’s Struggles: Questions About Depth
While Texas emerged as a winner in the first round, other teams from the Big 12 didn’t fare as well. Programs like TCU and Kansas State, despite strong seasons, found themselves outmatched in the playoff, raising questions about the overall depth of the Big 12. The conference has often been seen as a step below the SEC and Big Ten in terms of competition, and the first-round results reinforced this perception.
For teams like TCU and Kansas State, it’s back to the drawing board. They’ll need to recruit at an even higher level and develop more consistency in both offensive and defensive play if they want to remain competitive on the national stage.