In an exciting turn of events, the four-team College Football Playoff era has officially come to an end with Michigan's dominant 34-13 victory over Washington in the College Football Playoff National Championship. Now, all eyes are on the upcoming 12-team playoff format set to debut in the 2024 season. Let's take a look at the early predictions for the teams that could make history as the first programs included in this expanded playoff field.

The current proposal suggests that the top six conference champions and six at-large teams will make up the playoff bracket. However, there has been speculation that one of the automatic bids for a conference champion could be eliminated due to the recent destruction of the Pac-12, leaving only Washington State and Oregon State in contention.

Under the current 6-6 format, here are the predicted matchups for the 2024 College Football Playoff:

- (9) Utah at (8) Notre Dame
- (12) Boise State at (5) Texas
- (11) Tulane at (6) Alabama
- (10) Ole Miss at (7) Washington

Breaking it down further, here's a closer look at the predicted 12-team playoff field:

1. Georgia (SEC champion): With quarterback Carson Beck leading the charge, Georgia is determined to build upon the dynasty that coach Kirby Smart has created within the program.

2. Michigan (Big Ten champion): Despite uncertainties surrounding the team, Michigan's strong culture and past success make them a strong contender for a top spot in the playoff.

3. Clemson (ACC champion): Coach Dabo Swinney's team is expected to have a consistent offense with quarterback Cade Klubnik and a solid running back in Phil Mafah.

4. Oklahoma State (Big 12 champion): The Cowboys, led by running back Ollie Gordon II, are poised to secure the Big 12 title and earn a spot in the playoff.

5. Texas (at-large): In their first year in the SEC, the Longhorns, led by standout quarterback Quinn Ewers, have the potential to make a deep playoff run.

6. Alabama (at-large): Expect the Crimson Tide to be in the mix once again, especially with the emergence of quarterback Jalen Milroe.

7. Washington (at-large): Despite losing key players, coach Kalen DeBoer's winning mentality is expected to keep the Huskies in contention for a playoff spot.

8. Notre Dame (at-large): With talented quarterback Riley Leonard leading the team, Notre Dame is expected to impress the CFP Selection Committee and secure an at-large bid.

9. Utah (at-large): The return of quarterback Cameron Rising gives the Utes an edge, especially with their tough playing style along the lines of scrimmage.

10. Ole Miss (at-large): Led by quarterback Jaxson Dart and a standout receiving corps, the Rebels aim to build on their successful 2023 season.

11. Tulane (AAC champion): With first-year coach Jon Sumrall at the helm and the talent of former high school star Ty Thompson, Tulane is expected to continue its success and secure the AAC championship.

12. Boise State (Mountain West champion): While the Mountain West champ has the inside track for the sixth conference spot, it remains uncertain if this format will change to a 7-5 model.

As the anticipation builds for the debut of the 12-team College Football Playoff, fans and experts are eagerly awaiting to see which teams will make history as the first participants in this expanded format. With a mixture of conference champions and at-large selections, the competition promises to be fierce as each team vies for a chance to compete for the national title in 2024.