Boise State's No. 25 CFP Ranking Reveals Surprising Playoff Scenario for Ohio State

The first College Football Playoff Top 25 has delivered a jolt: Boise State, ranked No. 25, could still secure a playoff invitation and leave a much higher-ranked team on the outside. The Broncos' position, combined with the CFP's automatic bid rules, creates a path where a Group of Five champion jumps a Power Four at-large candidate. This scenario directly threatens Ohio State, a top-10 team that may be vulnerable if it fails to win the Big Ten. The Buckeyes' loss to Oregon earlier this season looms large, and another defeat could push them out of the at-large pool. Meanwhile, Boise State controls its destiny in the Mountain West, and a conference title would guarantee a spot in the 12-team field. The Broncos' star running back Ashton Jeanty, a Heisman contender, gives them a puncher's chance against any opponent. For Ohio State, the message is clear: win the conference or risk watching a team ranked 20 spots lower celebrate a playoff berth.