CBS Sports: Shocking CFP Top 12 Shakeup After Week 3

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cbs sports readers following the college football playoff race saw major movement after an intense Week 3. ESPN’s latest projection places Texas at No. 1, while Ole Miss made the biggest jump after defeating LSU in a statement Southeastern Conference matchup.

The projected rankings reflect the selection committee’s potential view if the season ended today. The SEC occupies three of the top four positions, reinforcing the conference’s growing control over the national championship picture.

Explosive CFP Top 12 Changes After Week 3

Texas remains the projected No. 1 team at 3-0. The Longhorns’ comeback victory over Ohio State continues to be viewed as one of the strongest wins in the country. Texas also handled UTSA comfortably, strengthening its case through both performance and statistical efficiency.

Ole Miss climbs to No. 2 after its dramatic win over LSU. The Rebels are also 3-0 and now own victories over two ranked opponents: Louisville and LSU. Quarterback Chambliss accounted for three touchdowns in the win, further boosting his growing Heisman Trophy profile.

Ohio State is projected third despite its loss to Texas. The Buckeyes responded impressively by defeating Kent State 59-3. Wide receiver Jeremiah Smith also broke Ohio State’s career receiving yardage record, adding another memorable moment to the weekend.

Georgia rounds out the top four at 3-0. The Bulldogs have dominated their early opponents, although the committee may question the strength of their schedule. Their upcoming road game at Alabama on Oct. 10 could dramatically reshape the SEC race.

Critical Battles for Miami and Notre Dame

Miami is projected fifth, ahead of Notre Dame at No. 6. The Hurricanes survived a difficult test at Wake Forest, where quarterback Darian Mensah completed his first 24 passes and set an ACC record for consecutive completions.

Miami has not yet faced a ranked opponent, but its road victories and defensive performance have impressed evaluators. The Hurricanes are scheduled to meet Notre Dame on Nov. 7 in one of the season’s most important nonconference games.

Notre Dame has already collected two Big Ten victories against Wisconsin and Michigan State. The Fighting Irish have also played elite defense, although their résumé will receive a much tougher examination when they face BYU and Miami later in the season.

LSU Falls, While Alabama Gains Momentum

Alabama is projected seventh after rallying from a 21-6 deficit to defeat Florida State. The Crimson Tide have scored at least 45 points in each of their first three games, and quarterback Keelon Russell completed 76.7% of his passes against the Seminoles.

LSU drops to No. 8 following its narrow loss at Ole Miss. The Tigers nearly tied the game in the final minute, but the defeat leaves them needing a strong response against Alabama and Texas later in the schedule.

Indiana remains unbeaten at No. 9, followed by BYU at No. 10. The Hoosiers have overwhelmed every opponent but still lack a signature win. BYU, meanwhile, has emerged as a leading Big 12 contender and will face Notre Dame on Oct. 17.

• No. 11 USC: The Trojans are 4-0 but must improve a defense that has allowed at least 30 points in three games.
• No. 12 Texas Tech: The Red Raiders gained attention with a win over ranked Houston.
• Boise State: The Broncos are projected as the highest-ranked Group of 6 team.

Projected Playoff Bracket Reveals High-Stakes Matchups

The current projection gives first-round byes to Texas, Ole Miss, Ohio State and Georgia. The opening-round games would include Boise State at Miami, USC at Notre Dame, BYU at Alabama and Indiana at LSU.

The bracket illustrates how quickly the playoff picture could change. Ohio State’s upcoming road games against Iowa, Indiana and USC are especially important, while USC faces a demanding stretch against Oregon, Washington and Penn State.

For Ole Miss, the victory over LSU created valuable breathing room, but the Rebels still have one of the nation’s toughest remaining schedules. Games against Florida, Georgia and Texas will determine whether their breakthrough season can continue toward a top seed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is projected No. 1 in the CFP rankings?

Texas is projected to hold the No. 1 position after starting 3-0 and defeating Ohio State in Week 2.

Which team made the biggest move after Week 3?

Ole Miss made the biggest impact by defeating LSU and rising to the projected No. 2 position.

Why did LSU fall in the playoff projection?

LSU dropped after losing to Ole Miss, although the Tigers remain inside the projected top eight because of their competitive performance and challenging schedule.

When will Miami play Notre Dame?

Miami is scheduled to visit Notre Dame on Nov. 7 in a matchup expected to have major playoff implications.