**Alabama Surges in College Football Playoff Rankings as Tennessee Slips**

In a notable shift within the College Football Playoff landscape, the Alabama Crimson Tide has risen to the No. 7 spot in the latest playoff rankings, while the Tennessee Volunteers find themselves on the outside looking in. This shift follows Tennessee's 31-17 loss to Georgia over the weekend at Sanford Stadium. As the rankings currently stand, the Volunteers would miss the cut if the playoffs began today.

The Crimson Tide, under Kalen DeBoer’s leadership, made a significant leap by climbing three spots in the updated committee rankings, despite a seemingly modest victory over FCS opponent Mercer. Crucially, Alabama's ascent came as both Tennessee and the BYU Cougars suffered losses, allowing the Tide to also leapfrog the 9-1 Miami Hurricanes, the ACC’s top-ranked team.

One of the most striking changes in the rankings this week is the committee's decision to position Boise State ahead of BYU. The Broncos, projected Mountain West champions, secured the No. 4 seed after BYU faltered in a 17-13 defeat against the 4-6 Kansas Jayhawks. This move underscores the committee's lack of confidence in the Big 12’s ability to field a dominant team.

While Miami holds the No. 8 spot in the committee's rankings, they sit as the No. 3 seed due to their position as the projected ACC champion. This differentiation between rankings and seeding is critical as it shows how various metrics and predictions factor into the selection process.

If the playoffs were to begin today, the projected conference champions and their first-round byes would include the Oregon Ducks as the No. 1 seed, remaining strong with an 11-0 overall record in the Big Ten. The Texas Longhorns, despite a shaky recent performance, hold the No. 2 seed. This position could be contested if Alabama continues its formidable run. Miami rounds out the top three seeds, though their play will be closely watched as the season concludes.

Boise State, tabbed as the No. 4 seed, showcases the committee's acknowledgment of their strong season. With a 9-1 overall record and an undefeated run in the Mountain West, the Broncos have proven their caliber and earned their place ahead of traditional powerhouses like BYU.

The first round of matchups proposes thrilling contests, including Alabama potentially facing the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, an encounter steeped in the rich traditions of both programs. Meanwhile, Ohio State would welcome the BYU Cougars, adding another layer of intrigue as teams battle for supremacy.

As the rankings evolve and the field finalizes, Alabama's resurgence and Tennessee's fall remind fans of the volatile and competitive nature of college football. The coming weeks promise further excitement as teams vie for their coveted spots in the College Football Playoff.