Can't Wait For Saturday First CFP rankings might poke holes in automatic bids plan

The 2025 College Football Playoff is set to kick off on December 19, followed by an exciting triple-header on December 20. This announcement from the College Football Playoff, ESPN, and TNT Sports is great news for fans, as it promises thrilling matchups and a festive atmosphere during the holiday season. The playoff format continues to build anticipation for college football's biggest games, making it a must-watch event.

In the upcoming matchup, Rutgers faces Maryland, a team that recently suffered a heavy defeat against Indiana. Despite this loss, the article emphasizes that beating Maryland is not a certainty for Rutgers. This highlights the unpredictability of college football, where past performances can sometimes mislead expectations. Fans and analysts alike will be keen to see how Rutgers approaches this game, as it could significantly impact their season.

The College Football Playoff selection committee is set to release its first rankings of the season, a highly anticipated event given the unpredictable nature of this year's games. Fans are eager to see if the committee aligns with the popular belief that defending champion Ohio State is the top team, or if they will recognize other undefeated contenders like Indiana, Texas A&M, or BYU. This initial ranking will play a crucial role in shaping the playoff landscape as teams vie for a spot in the championship.

The College Football Playoff has unveiled its TV schedule, which includes games on TNT that will once again compete with the NFL. This is significant as it highlights the growing popularity of college football and its ability to draw viewers even against the backdrop of the NFL's dominance. Fans can look forward to an exciting season where both leagues will vie for attention, showcasing the thrilling nature of college football.

Myles Turner expressed his disappointment over the booing he received from Indiana Pacers fans during his return to the team. The former Pacers star felt frustrated by the negative response, highlighting the emotional connection players have with their former teams and fans. This incident underscores the complexities of player-fan relationships in sports, especially when a beloved player returns to face their old team.

Nebraska volleyball players Bergen Reilly and Rebekah Allick have been recognized with weekly Big Ten awards, highlighting their outstanding performances. This recognition not only showcases their individual talents but also brings attention to the strength of the Nebraska volleyball program, which continues to excel in collegiate sports.

Ryan Pedon, a Bexley native and former assistant coach at Ohio State, is making waves as the head coach of Illinois State's basketball team. His journey from local roots to a prominent coaching position showcases his dedication and expertise in the sport. This is significant not only for the team but also for the community, as it highlights the potential for local talent to succeed at higher levels.

Penn State's interim coach Terry Smith is optimistic about the team's strategy for their upcoming game against No. 2 Indiana, emphasizing a focus on developing an intermediate and downfield passing game. This approach could enhance their offensive capabilities and make the game more competitive, which is crucial for the team's morale and future performance.

The Green Bay Packers are facing another setback as tight end Tucker Kraft is sidelined, just as wide receiver Christian Watson returns to the field. Watson, who understands the challenges of recovery after his own ACL injury last season, reached out to Kraft with a supportive message. This situation highlights the ongoing struggles of the Packers' roster and the resilience required from players as they navigate injuries.

Despite a challenging season for Colorado football, with a current record of 3-6 and a recent heavy loss to Arizona, the team continues to attract talent. An ex-Alabama commit has chosen to join the Buffaloes, highlighting the program's ongoing appeal even amid struggles. This recruitment is significant as it shows that potential players are still interested in Colorado, which could help turn the program around in the future.

The highly anticipated boxing match between Jake Paul and Tank Davis has been canceled due to a lawsuit against Davis. This news is disappointing for fans who were looking forward to the showdown, as both fighters have built significant followings and the event was expected to draw considerable viewership on Netflix. The cancellation raises questions about the future of such high-profile matches and the impact of legal issues on sports entertainment.

Chelsea and Manchester United are reportedly in a competitive race to sign Brazilian forward Vitor Roque, who has been making waves in the Premier League. This transfer battle highlights the growing interest in young talent from Brazil and could significantly impact both clubs' attacking options for the upcoming season.

The Indianapolis Colts have made a significant move by trading for Sauce Gardner from the New York Jets, a decision that could reshape their season after a tough loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. This trade is crucial as it not only strengthens their defense but also signals the team's commitment to improving and competing in the NFL. Fans are excited about the potential impact Gardner can have on the field, making this a pivotal moment for the Colts.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are making a strategic move by transitioning star cornerback Jalen Ramsey to safety in response to their struggling defense this season. Head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed this decision as the team seeks to address its safety concerns internally. This change could significantly impact the team's defensive performance as they navigate the challenges of the 2025 season.