Indiana University’s path to the College Football Playoff (CFP) remains a challenging but plausible scenario in the 2024 season, requiring a combination of key victories, other teams’ upsets, and strong performances in both the Big Ten Championship and potentially a New Year’s Six bowl game.
1. Win the Big Ten Championship: Indiana’s primary route to the CFP is to secure a spot in the Big Ten Championship, which requires winning the Big Ten East. This is no small feat, as they must overcome perennial powerhouses like Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State. A perfect regular season record or only one loss, coupled with a dominant win in the Big Ten Championship game, would place Indiana in strong contention.
2. Big Ten’s Strength of Schedule: The Big Ten is one of the strongest conferences in the nation, and a win over top-ranked teams like Michigan or Ohio State would significantly boost Indiana’s resume. The committee will favor programs from power conferences with impressive wins over ranked teams.
3. National Landscape: The CFP selection committee considers overall team strength, which means Indiana must also hope for key losses from other playoff contenders. If teams like Georgia, Alabama, or others in the SEC experience multiple losses, Indiana’s case becomes stronger.
4. Eye-Catching Victories: Indiana’s playoff push also depends on dominating its non-conference schedule and performing well in games against teams ranked within the top 25. A couple of statement wins will bolster their standing and improve their chances of being selected.
If Indiana manages to navigate these hurdles successfully, it could secure a coveted spot in the 2024 College Football Playoff, making history in the process.