Greg McElroy Outlines Path for Alabama to Reach College Football Playoffs
As Alabama’s playoff hopes hang in the balance, former Crimson Tide quarterback Greg McElroy has laid out what must happen for Nick Saban’s team to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Despite a loss to Oklahoma and some bumps along the way this season, McElroy believes the Tide still have a viable path to the playoff, but they need everything to fall into place.
First and foremost, McElroy emphasized that Alabama must win out in their remaining games, including the SEC Championship. A dominant victory in the conference title game would strengthen their resume, especially if they face a top-ranked opponent like Georgia or LSU. McElroy pointed out that a win over a highly-ranked SEC foe would significantly boost Alabama’s playoff chances, despite their early-season setbacks.
Beyond winning, McElroy outlined the importance of other top teams faltering. For Alabama to make the CFP, they need the current top contenders—such as Michigan, Georgia, and Oregon—to slip up in their respective conference championships or regular-season games. A loss by one or more of these teams would open the door for the Crimson Tide to make a case for one of the four spots in the playoff.
McElroy also noted that Alabama’s strength of schedule and overall talent, particularly with Jalen Milroe leading the offense, should be factors the CFP committee weighs heavily. However, he stressed that style points matter, and Alabama must look impressive in their final games, avoiding close calls or sloppy performances that might further damage their playoff case.
With everything on the line, McElroy’s projections suggest that Alabama’s road to the CFP is far from guaranteed, but it’s still very much alive.