FOX Sports Anchor’s CFP Shakeup: Oregon and Ohio State Lead the Pack
With the first month of the 2025 college football season wrapped, FOX analyst Joel Klatt has unveiled his updated 12-team College Football Playoff projections. The playoff picture is already shifting: Oregon and Ohio State headline as Klatt's "locks." Both carry undefeated records and signature wins that bolster their resumes. For example, the Ducks' thrilling double-overtime victory over Penn State catapulted them to the second-ranked spot in the AP Poll. Meanwhile, Ohio State's defensive showcase against Washington kept the Buckeyes firmly in the national discussion. Because of these performances, Klatt emphasized that both programs have playoff resumes too strong to ignore, regardless of how the next two months unfold. For fans of the Ducks, who moved from the Pac-12 and are now in the Big Ten, this is validation that Oregon's move has only elevated its national profile.
At-Large spots on the Hot Seat
While Oregon and Ohio State are safe bets, Klatt's projections stirred debate by putting pressure on at-large hopefuls like Penn State, Alabama, and Texas. For example, Penn State's loss to Oregon exposed lingering questions about its execution in big games. Similarly, Alabama's early stumbles have it clinging to a top-10 spot. Meanwhile, Joel Klatt suggested that Texas, despite their offensive firepower, may need to win out to secure a berth amid the crowded field. As a result, the at-large pool, once assumed to be a lifeline for the SEC and Big Ten powers, now looks shakier. Adding to the mix, multiple unbeaten outsiders like Miami remain in play. In Klatt's words, "This is the year where reputations alone won't carry you; resume strength is everything."
The Bigger Picture: Parity Rising
Klatt's latest board reflects a growing theme in college football: balance. Oregon, Ohio State, Miami, and even surprise contenders like Kansas State are all fighting for national relevance. The playoff race feels more open than ever. The 12-team format was designed for this moment. It gives dark horses a pathway while forcing traditional blue bloods to prove their worth week after week. For fans, this means every Saturday matters more. One loss could be the difference between hosting a playoff game and missing the bracket entirely. If the first month has shown us anything, it's that the 2025 playoff race could become the most unpredictable, yet thrilling, we have ever seen. Nat's Take: Klatt's predictions may be a wake-up call for programs relying on name recognition to carry them. Oregon and Ohio State may be locks, but the chaos underneath is what will make this playoff season unforgettable.
