Countdown to the College Football Playoff: Key Matchups and Stakes in Week 13
Countdown to the College Football Playoff: Teams Make Their Final Push
As the clock ticks down to the unveiling of the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) bracket, teams across the nation are scrambling to solidify their postseason aspirations. With just over two weeks remaining, every game counts, and for No. 13 Miami, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Hurricanes, currently sitting with two losses in ACC play, face an uphill battle to secure an at-large spot in the CFP. Their path to the conference title game—and the automatic bid that comes with it—looks increasingly unlikely. Miami’s immediate challenge comes in the form of a matchup against Virginia Tech, where a win is essential to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Meanwhile, the day’s action features No. 1 Ohio State hosting Rutgers, a game that the Buckeyes are heavily favored to win. However, the most critical clash of the day will see No. 15 USC travel to Eugene, Oregon, to take on the No. 7 Ducks at 3:30 p.m. ET on CBS. The victor of this high-stakes encounter will likely gain a significant advantage in the race for an at-large berth in the CFP.
In another notable matchup, No. 17 Texas will face Arkansas, while the late window will spotlight No. 11 BYU squaring off against Cincinnati. Both BYU and Texas Tech are vying for a spot in the Big 12 title game, with only one loss against conference competition.
As the day unfolds, CBS Sports will provide live updates, scores, and highlights, ensuring fans stay informed on all the action.
Week 13 Scores and Schedule
- No. 13 Miami 34, Virginia Tech 17 — Recap
- No. 8 Oklahoma 17, No. 22 Missouri 6 — Recap
- No. 1 Ohio State 42, Rutgers 9 — Recap
- No. 15 USC at No. 7 Oregon — CBS — LIVE updates
- Kentucky at No. 14 Vanderbilt — ESPN — GameTracker
- Syracuse at No. 9 Notre Dame — NBC — GameTracker
- Arkansas at No. 17 Texas — ABC — GameTracker
- No. 20 Tennessee at Florida — 7:30 p.m. on ABC
- No. 11 BYU at Cincinnati — 8 p.m. on Fox
With the playoff picture becoming clearer by the day, fans and teams alike are bracing for an exhilarating finish to the college football season. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds!

