ARLINGTON, Texas – Cincinnati proved it belonged, Alabama showed it should never be doubted and Jim Harbaugh finally delivered Michigan fans the season they have been craving.
The College Football Playoff picture easily fell into place Saturday as the Bearcats stayed unbeaten, poised to become the first team from outside the Power Five conferences and powerful independent Notre Dame to make the four-team field in the eight-year history of this postseason format.
“If it’s meant to be, it will be. I don’t think these guys can be denied,” Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell told reporters.
Meanwhile, in a season highlighted by upsets, who would have guessed the Crimson Tide would get in on the act? An underdog Alabama beat No. 1 Georgia in the Southeastern Conference championship game to likely ensure both SEC teams make the CFP.
Heading into the late games all that stood between the selection committee and a stress-free night before Sunday’s CFP unveiling was the Big Ten title game. No. 2 Michigan complied, thumping Iowa to lock up its first playoff appearance.