The 12-team College Football Playoff is proving to be exciting. More teams have something significant riding on their performances as the regular season winds down, making every game feel essential and creating heightened anticipation for the final stretch of matches.

However, this year seems to have already sketched out the conclusion before we see the games play out. No. 1 Ohio State and No. 3 Texas A&M are on a clear path toward the College Football Playoff National Championship.

Both teams are distinctly superior to the rest in the competition. No. 2 Indiana lags a bit, especially after a rough performance against one of the weakest Penn State squads seen in recent years.

Concurrently, Ohio State has continued its impressive streak, winning their sixth consecutive game by a margin of at least 18 points after a decisive victory over Purdue. Texas A&M also showcased strength with a commanding win against No. 22 Missouri with a score of 38-17.

Ohio State and Texas A&M have not only managed to dodge the chaos surrounding the 2025 season but have thrived. They possess full-roster strengths bolstered by top-tier quarterback performances, deep receiving options, and formidable defenses.

Looking forward, the matchup on January 19 promises to be electrifying.

Oregon is a Paper Tiger

Unless an unforeseen catastrophe unfolds late in the season, Oregon is headed for the College Football Playoff. The Ducks are likely to be favored in their upcoming matches and should handle their schedule largely without difficulty, except possibly for the anticipated showdown against No. 19 USC on November 22.

However, that may not suffice for them to reach the Big Ten Championship Game, and they could find their playoff run short-lived, similar to last year. Oregon’s true colors may be exposed when they face stronger contenders.

The Ducks’ resume does not impress much. Their latest gritty road win against No. 20 Iowa was the first time they triumphed against a ranked opponent this season. Besides that victory, their wins against lower-ranked teams led to a lackluster combined record of 19-36.

Oregon lost by 10 at home to No. 2 Indiana. While the victory against Iowa might shine on paper, there’s growing skepticism regarding the Hawkeyes’ rank owing to their overall performance.

Ultimately, Oregon has not shown that they can stand strong on the big stage.

Shifting Focus to Fernando Mendoza

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is having a stellar season, serving as the driving force behind Indiana’s impressive second consecutive 10-0 start, likely solidifying his place in the early rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. His potential as a professional quarterback seems bright.

However, the moment he guided the Hoosiers to a victory over Penn State with an 80-yard drive, many jumped to proclaim that he had his ‘Heisman moment’.

While Mendoza’s performance was indeed commendable, culminating in key passes to wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr, it’s essential to remember that he threw a critical interception not long before that drive.

Mendoza may not even be the top quarterback in the Big Ten; Ohio State’s Julian Sayin may steal that title. While Mendoza’s success this season warrants his mention in the Heisman discourse, prematurely naming him the winner seems premature.

Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez Deserves Heisman Attention

Texas Tech’s linebacker Jacob Rodriguez should be receiving more accolades regarding the Heisman Trophy discussion. His impactful game against No. 7 BYU showcased his talent, contributing significantly to a team looking poised for the Big 12 Championship and potentially a College Football Playoff appearance.

Rodriguez had an impressive 14 tackles along with other notable efforts, all culminating in a memorable Heisman pose following a game-changing interception.

Defensive players are frequently overlooked for college football’s most prestigious award, with only two defenders previously winning it. Rodriguez’s performance this season, particularly against BYU, makes a compelling case for giving a standout defender the recognition they deserve.

Joe Fagnano, UConn’s Unsung Hero

UConn quarterback Joe Fagnano is a player gaining traction as UConn’s season improves to 7-3 with their recent upset over Duke. His passing capabilities have been essential for the Huskies as they aim for their best season in years.

Fagnano delivered an outstanding performance with 311 yards and three touchdowns against Duke while extending his streak without an interception, bringing national attention to his remarkable projection this season.