- The College Football Playoff quarterfinals kick off Wednesday with four matchups at iconic bowl games.
- A tweak to the playoff format now awards byes to the four highest-ranked teams, a change that could impact outcomes after last year’s upsets.
- Ohio State enters as a heavy favorite against Miami,while other games feature closer spreads and intriguing storylines.
- Expert picks favor Ohio State, Oregon, Georgia, and an Over bet in the Indiana-Alabama game.
The college football world turns its attention to the playoff quarterfinals, and a key question looms: can teams actually benefit from a first-round bye? All four teams that received byes in the inaugural 12-team playoff lost in the quarterfinals, fueling debate about whether rest is overrated in the modern postseason. This year’s seeding formula,awarding byes to the four highest-ranked teams rather than conference champions,aims to address that.
Quarterfinals Set the Stage for Semifinal Showdowns
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The action begins Wednesday night with these matchups:
Ohio State vs. Miami: Buckeyes Poised for Victory
ohio State unleashed its potential throughout the 2025 season. While Miami’s pass rush could present challenges, Ohio State is expected to make enough plays to secure the win.
Pick: Ohio State -9.5 — Shehan Jeyarajah
Oregon vs. Texas Tech: A Chess Match in the Orange Bowl
The Orange Bowl matchup between Oregon and Texas Tech promises a strategic battle. Both teams will aim to establish explosive plays against strong defenses. This contest is expected to be closely contested, possibly extending deep into the second half. Ultimately, a quarterback capable of delivering a game-changing play could swing the outcome, and Dante Moore of oregon appears well-equipped for that role, having made crucial throws late in games this season.
Pick: Oregon -2.5 — chip Patterson
Alabama vs.Indiana: Hoosiers’ Unbeaten Run Tested
The Rose Bowl pits undefeated Indiana against Alabama. The total for this game is set at 48.5, which feels a bit low. While a high-scoring affair isn’t anticipated, both offenses are capable of moving the ball against these defenses. alabama arguably should have scored more against Oklahoma in the first round, and Indiana’s defense, while exceptional, has shown vulnerability to explosive passes-an area where Alabama excels. Expect a game that isn’t a blowout, but also won’t be a defensive stalemate.
Pick: Over 48.5 — Tom Fornelli
Georgia vs. Ole Miss: Bulldogs Look to Reassert Dominance
Georgia and Ole Miss will clash in the sugar Bowl, a rematch of a 43-35 regular-season victory for the Bulldogs. Sence that initial contest on Oct. 18, Georgia’s defense has transformed into one of the nation’s elite units. Opponents have averaged a mere 7.25 points per game in their last four outings, showcasing the impact of coordinator Glenn Schumann’s system. It’s unlikely Ole Miss will replicate its offensive performance from the first meeting, and Georgia’s defense is poised to make enough stops to advance.
Pick: Georgia -6.5 — David Cobb
Who will win and cover in each college football bowl and playoff game? SportsLine’s computer model has simulated each matchup 10,000 times and revealed its picks. Visit SportsLine now to see all its college football picks.
