College Football Playoff projection: No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes

The Ohio State Buckeyes have emerged as a frontrunner in the 2025 College Football Playoff race, boasting an 11-0 record as they prepare for their regular-season finale against Michigan. Head coach Ryan Day has indicated that receivers Jeremiah Smith and Carnell Tate are day-to-day, raising concerns about the team's depth ahead of the Big Ten Championship. A key storyline is Ohio State's attempt to break a four-game losing streak to Michigan, which could become the longest in over a century for "The Game" if extended. A victory over the Wolverines would secure a spot in the Big Ten title game and likely earn them a top seed in the playoffs, as projected by On3's Andy Staples. Despite advancing to the playoffs, a loss could deny Ohio State the top seed, making the rivalry game a crucial test of both playoff aspirations and pride.