Indiana, Georgia, Ohio State and Texas Tech Get Byes as 2025–26 College Football Playoff Bracket is Set
CFP Bracket Revealed: Who’s In — And Who’s Snubbed
The 2025–26 College Football Playoff bracket was unveiled today with a 12-team format. AP News+2AP News+2
- First-round byes go to the top four seeds: Indiana, Georgia, Ohio State and Texas Tech. AP News+2AP News+2
- Additional teams earning spots include Alabama, Miami, Ole Miss, Oregon, James Madison, Tulane, Oklahoma and Texas A&M. Red Cup Rebellion+3AP News+3AP News+3
Notably, Notre Dame Fighting Irish — despite finishing with a strong record — was left out, sparking controversy among fans and analysts. AP News+1
Why Indiana Took the Top Spot
Indiana Hoosiers locked in the No. 1 seed following a tight 13–10 win over Ohio State Buckeyes in the conference championship — delivering their first Big Ten title since 1967. AP News+2AP News+2
That victory capped an undefeated 13–0 season, earning Indiana their first-ever top ranking in the Associated Press Top 25 poll. AP News+2Reuters+2
Matchups to Watch: First Round & Beyond
Early games reveal intriguing matchups:
- James Madison Dukes — making their first CFP appearance ever — take on the Oregon Ducks. AP News+2Underdog Dynasty+2
- Ole Miss Rebels face Tulane Green Wave — their regular-season rematch — while Alabama Crimson Tide and Miami Hurricanes also get tough first-round draws. AP News+2Red Cup Rebellion+2
If top seeds hold, we could see marquee matchups in the quarterfinals and semifinals — setting up an exciting run toward the championship.
