With just a weekend of conference championships ahead before the final rankings release for the College Football Playoff, the postseason picture is shaping a sturdy mold that—dare to dream—may avoid great dispute.
Four teams in action this weekend control their own destiny and can clinch a spot among the top four by winning their respective conference title games. Such is the case for No. 1 Clemson, No. 2 Alabama, No. 4 Iowa and No. 5 Michigan State. The latter pair will sort things out in their meeting for the Big Ten crown in what amounts to a play-in game.