Bowl projections: Miami shines, Texas joins College Football Playoff picture

The College Football Playoff projections have been updated following rivalry weekend, with significant implications for teams like Miami and Texas. Miami ended its season with a dominant win over Pittsburgh, adding weight to its playoff case. Texas, meanwhile, delivered a decisive blow to Texas A&M's perfect season, potentially complicating the Longhorns' playoff aspirations due to their three-loss record.

Entering the conference championship weekend, Ohio State, Indiana, Georgia, Texas Tech, Oregon, and Ole Miss are considered locks for the playoff. Two spots are reserved for the ACC and Group of Five champions, leaving four at-large spots for debate. Oklahoma, Notre Dame, and Alabama are vying for these positions, with Texas possibly becoming the first three-loss at-large team if selected.

Texas' bid is complicated by previous losses, including a significant defeat to Georgia and setbacks against Florida and Kentucky. Meanwhile, four other Texas programs are in contention for playoff spots, adding to the pressure on the Longhorns.

Several teams secured bowl