CFB Playoff and Championship Predictions

Panelists' records are against the spread, but the picks for the CFB Playoff are straight up.

Synopses:

Jeremy

1. Florida State vs. Oregon - This game concerns me since I picked Oregon. Sure, FSU hasn't been the dominant force everyone expected after last year, but they're still undefeated and I just wonder if they'll pull an NBA style switch-flip. Oregon's offense will put up points here. The question becomes when does FSU's offense take the field. If they play a poor first half as they have most of the year, it could be curtain early. I don't think that will be the case but the Heisman winner that makes the plays to win in the end will be wearing Green and Yellow (or whatever colors they are wearing this game). Oregon 34-28

2. Ohio State vs. Alabama - If Ohio State was starting their usual QB, I'd have more faith in them. But here's the deal, they're starting QB is in his 2nd game against a Nick Saban defense that has had a month to prepare. I think the Buckeye defense will throw some curve balls at Lane Kiffin and Blake Sims but the Tide D will be the difference here. Alabama 31-20

3. National Championship - Every bone in my body says to pick the Tide. I think they are the better team. But, I think they will struggle with the Oregon offense in a relatively quick turnaround. The Ducks offense is better than Auburns with a more accurate QB. The Ducks have been knocking for years, I think they win a shoot-out for the National Championship in a classic first play-off championship game. Oregon 42-38


Brian

1. Florida State vs. Oregon - I have always said that when Oregon plays more physical offensive and defensive lines, they struggle and that's why I can't take them completely seriously. FSU's lines aren't as good as last year, but as a team, FSU can match Oregon's speed. That presents problems for Oregon. Florida State 35-28

2. Ohio State vs. Alabama - Ohio State's win over Wisconsin really impressed me, given their string of QB injuries this year. I believe Urban Meyer is the 2nd best coach in college football. However, I am not sure Ohio State has played anyone close to Alabama in terms of talent and depth. Ohio State will put up a better fight than during the Tressel days, but will still lose. Alabama 42-31

3. National Championship - At the beginning of the year, I picked Florida State to win the National Championship again. I do not think FSU is nearly as good as they were last year, but they still find ways to win. It isn't easy to go undefeated in Power 5 Conference play, no matter what. Alabama has a more dynamic offense than last year, but their defense is worse. I can't stand Jameis Winston, but he finds ways to win. I'm not sure Blake Sims is that kind of leader. Florida State 35-32

Keppel

1. Florida State vs. Oregon - Duck Tape

2. Ohio State vs. Alabama - Tide Bleach

3. National Champion - High Tide