Oregon’s Playoff Hopes Rest on a Narrow Path
Oregon entered the first College Football Playoff rankings at No. 23 on November 3, keeping its postseason hopes alive despite three losses. The Ducks face a pivotal game at Ohio State on November 7.
Oregon’s inclusion in the opening College Football Playoff rankings gives the three-loss Ducks a route back into contention, though their place at No. 23 is far from secure. Only 12 teams will make the playoff, and Oregon must navigate a difficult finish to its season.
The Ducks have lost to Oklahoma State, UCLA and Illinois, but own wins over ranked USC and Boise State. UCLA, which beat Oregon, sits at No. 8. A victory over No. 12 Ohio State could improve Oregon’s standing; a defeat would likely leave the team with little chance of advancing.
Oregon’s remaining schedule also includes Michigan, Michigan State and Washington. To reach the Big Ten title game, the Ducks need to win their remaining games and benefit from results elsewhere. The possibilities include USC losing again, Illinois taking another defeat and Indiana dropping a game. UCLA winning out would help by giving Illinois and USC losses, while an Indiana defeat to USC on November 14 is another possible boost for Oregon.
If Oregon reaches and wins the conference championship, it would secure a playoff berth. The first test is a trip to Columbus on November 7, where the Ducks’ slim opportunity could gain momentum or largely disappear.