### College Football's Post-Week 13 Analysis: Top Teams Secure, Others Scramble for Playoff Spots

In the aftermath of a turbulent Week 13 in college football, four teams have solidified their positions as likely contenders in the College Football Playoff. Notably, Alabama finds itself struggling outside the playoff picture, joining other teams like Ole Miss and Colorado, who faltered during conference play.

As we approach rivalry week, we’ve analyzed the playoff odds using several criteria, including selection committee rankings, strength of schedule, significant wins, and what lies ahead in the next couple of weeks leading up to the final vote.

### The Locks: Oregon, Ohio State, Texas, Notre Dame

**Oregon**: The Ducks have established themselves as a top contender, almost guaranteeing their playoff spot regardless of an upcoming match against Washington and a potential loss in the Big Ten Championship. Their consistent performance has earned them a solidified position.

**Ohio State**: The Buckeyes have secured their playoff berth following a commendable victory over previously unbeaten Indiana. With two top-five wins under their belt and only a narrow loss to Oregon, Ohio State stands as the second-best team in college football at this stage.

**Texas**: While they may lack in terms of quality wins, Texas benefits from the recent stumble of Alabama against Oklahoma and Florida’s upset over Ole Miss. Even with a potential loss to Texas A&M, the Longhorns' current ranking (No. 3) ensures their playoff spot.

**Notre Dame**: The Fighting Irish have been dominant, most recently crushing previously unbeaten Army. Even if they fall to USC in their next game, their impressive performances and a high regard held by the selection committee chair Warde Manuel ensures their lock status.

### The Near-Locks: Penn State, Miami, Georgia, Tennessee

**Penn State**: If the Nittany Lions handle Maryland, they can expect a first-round home game, thanks to their 11-1 record. Their narrow win against Minnesota was crucial, and they are close to finalizing their playoff position.

**Miami**: The Hurricanes are set to move up in the upcoming CFP Rankings after Alabama and Indiana’s losses. Beating Syracuse will propel them into a lock status irrespective of their ACC Championship Game outcome against SMU.

**Georgia and Tennessee**: Both SEC teams are vying for double-digit wins. Georgia, already secure for the SEC Championship Game, needs to triumph over Georgia Tech. Tennessee, on the other hand, must defeat Vanderbilt to reach the 10-win mark.

### Just Outside the Lock: Indiana, Boise State, SMU

**Indiana**: Should the Hoosiers overcome Purdue, their playoff spot will be assured, potentially securing a first-round home game. Their competitive game against Ohio State will play in their favor if they continue to impress.

**Boise State**: The Broncos have their destiny in their hands; winning against Oregon State and triumphing in the Mountain West Conference will secure their playoff spot, sidelining competitors like Army or Tulane.

**SMU**: Closing the season strong, SMU needs to win against Cal and then either Miami or Clemson in the ACC Championship Game to erase any doubts. While they’ve clinched a spot in the ACC title game, any slip against Cal would demand a must-win in the championship showdown.

As the season heads into its most critical juncture, several teams are already in prime playoff position, while others must navigate the final games carefully to ensure their spot in the highly anticipated College Football Playoff.