As of December 8, 2024, CBS Sports Bracketologist Jerry Palm is projecting Alabama to make the College Football Playoff (CFP), despite the uncertainty surrounding their positioning. With an 11-1 record, Alabama is currently ranked #5 in the CFP standings, just outside the top four. Palm’s prediction hinges on several factors, including potential upsets in conference championships and Alabama’s strong finish to the regular season.
The Crimson Tide’s case for the CFP is bolstered by significant victories over ranked teams like Tennessee and Ole Miss, as well as their dominating win in the Iron Bowl against Auburn. Alabama’s only loss this season came to Texas, but Palm believes their strong resume and the competitive nature of the SEC, where they finished with a 7-1 record, will be enough to earn them a spot in the playoff if certain results fall in their favor.
According to Palm, Alabama’s best path into the top four relies on outcomes in other conference championship games. If teams like Florida State, Washington, or Oregon lose in their respective title games, Alabama could jump into the CFP, even with the lone loss to Texas. A strong performance in the SEC Championship game could also sway the selection committee, particularly if Georgia wins the conference as expected.
While Palm predicts Alabama will make the playoff, he also notes the possibility of the Tide landing in a prestigious New Year’s Six bowl if they fall short. However, with Selection Day just around the corner, Alabama’s playoff fate remains highly fluid, dependent on the outcomes of upcoming conference championship games.