The College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals have arrived, showcasing six out of eight teams that are familiar with competing at this high level. Meanwhile, Boise State and Arizona State are eager to prove their legitimacy in this intense tournament, as they both enter as conference champions ranked among the top four seeds, albeit as significant underdogs.
In preparation for their matchup in the Fiesta Bowl against Penn State, the Boise State Broncos showcased their confident mindset by donning T-shirts emblazoned with the message “Please Count Us Out” in bold letters. Currently, Penn State is favored to win by 11 points, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. Maddux Madsen, the Broncos’ quarterback, shared that the shirts were a direct response to doubts expressed about their placement as the No. 3 seed. “Many people felt we shouldn’t be here,” Madsen remarked. “But what did we do to earn that doubt?”
The Broncos boast an impressive record of 12-1, having only lost by three to top-seeded Oregon back in September, and they secured a Group of Five playoff position by defeating UNLV twice. In the Peach Bowl, Texas is favored by 12.5 points against Arizona State. Like the Broncos, the Sun Devils are soaking in the underdog narrative, which quarterback Sam Leavitt claims only adds to their motivation. After coming off a disappointing season where they won just three games and were predicted to finish last in the Big 12, Arizona State now stands at 11-2, having recently triumphed over Iowa State in the conference championship.
Leavitt expressed his surprise at the predicted scores, stating, “As we progressed this year and kept disproving everyone’s doubts, I’m puzzled by the betting lines, but I am fully excited. All I wanted was an opportunity to showcase what we’re capable of on this grand stage.”
Among the matchups for the quarterfinals are No. 6 seed Penn State, who is favored by 11 points against No. 3 seed Boise State. The Broncos’ chances of upsetting the odds hinge significantly on Heisman Trophy runner-up Ashton Jeanty. He has been instrumental, accounting for an astounding 48.3% of the team’s offensive touches, making him a crucial player to watch. Jeanty has posted remarkable individual performances, totaling 2,497 rushing yards – the fourth highest in a single season – including multiple 200-yard games, though it’s worth noting that a substantial portion of these achievements came against weaker defensive teams.
Penn State, recognized for having faced one of the toughest schedules, ranks fourth nationwide in total defense, while Boise State’s defensive schedule ranks lower. The Nittany Lions possess talents like Abdul Carter, known for his quickness, and Drew Allar, who could exploit the Broncos’ tendency to load up against the run. The anticipated outcome? A predicted Penn State victory, with the scoreline leaning toward 31-17.
The second matchup features No. 5 Texas pitted against No. 4 Arizona State. The Sun Devils have displayed a winning streak of six games, and their performance might be affected by the long layoff of 24 days. Similarly relying on their star running back, Cam Skattebo, who has amassed an impressive 494 yards and eight touchdowns in recent contests, Arizona State aims to prevail against the formidable Texas defense, known for its strength against the run. Leavitt hopes the scoring chance opened up by Texas’ recent performance won’t repeat. Predictions currently point to a narrow victory for Texas, with a score of 28-23.
In another exciting clash, No. 8 Ohio State meets top-seeded Oregon, with the Ducks coming off an unbeaten 13-0 season and having narrowly outperformed the Buckeyes earlier in the season. Their initial bout was notable and now the rematch expects to be equally thrilling, with pick predictions favoring Ohio State narrowly at 30-28.
Lastly, No. 7 Notre Dame faces No. 2 Georgia, with a twist as Georgia’s quarterback position sees Gunner Stockton making his debut due to an injury to Carson Beck. This matchup is loaded with intrigue, particularly due to Stockton’s inexperience and the recent loss of a top defensive player for the Irish. However, Notre Dame has been strong on the ground, potentially posing a challenge to Georgia’s defense. Predictions indicate a close contest, siding slightly with Notre Dame at 24-21.
As the playoffs progress, excitement is palpable among fans and teams alike, with favorites and underdogs alike set to battle it out for a chance in championship glory.
