As the College Football Playoff (CFP) Selection Day draws near, ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) has weighed in on Alabama’s chances of securing a spot in the postseason. According to the latest FPI projections, the Crimson Tide have a strong likelihood of making the CFP, with their chances sitting at around 60%. This comes after a compelling season that saw Alabama finish 11-1, with the only blemish being a narrow loss to Texas earlier in the year.
Alabama’s playoff hopes are bolstered by their impressive resume, which includes significant victories over ranked opponents like Tennessee and Ole Miss, as well as a dominant 27-0 Iron Bowl win over Auburn. The FPI gives Alabama a favorable chance, particularly given the team’s strong finish and the potential for other top contenders to falter in their respective conference championships. A strong performance in the SEC Championship could further elevate their standing, especially if teams like Florida State, Washington, or Oregon face losses in their championship games.
However, the FPI also highlights several factors that could affect Alabama’s playoff chances. If Georgia wins the SEC Championship against Missouri, Alabama would need some help from other results, as the Crimson Tide’s loss to Texas could hurt their resume compared to undefeated or one-loss teams from other conferences. In the worst-case scenario, where Alabama misses the playoff, they are projected to land in a prestigious New Year’s Six bowl, likely the Sugar Bowl, where they would face a high-caliber opponent.
Ultimately, Alabama’s playoff fate remains in flux, but their chances are strong as Selection Day approaches, with a solid mix of results from conference title games likely to shape the final bracket.