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In the latest College Football Playoff rankings, Alabama football finds itself ranked No. 13, teetering on the brink of playoff contention. To break into the expansive 12-team field, a sequence of specific outcomes must unfold.

Despite a disappointing 24-3 loss to Oklahoma last weekend, which many speculated might eliminate the Crimson Tide from playoff discussions, the committee's ranking suggests otherwise. Alabama remains very much in the hunt, to the surprise and potential frustration of rival fans and even some within the Crimson Tide community.

As it stands, Alabama is the second team outside of the field, with Arizona State positioned above them, and Clemson holding the No. 12 spot. Notably, Clemson's resume lacks significant achievements beyond an early season loss to Georgia, yet they sit just outside the bubble.

For Alabama, the journey to the playoffs no longer rests solely in their hands. Key results over the final regular season weekend and the conference championships will be crucial. The first step is a victory in the Iron Bowl against Auburn. Without this, other scenarios become irrelevant.

Moreover, two ACC teams, Miami and SMU, are projected to compete in the ACC Championship Game. For the ACC to place both teams in the playoff, SMU must defeat Miami; a win by Miami instead would eliminate SMU from contention. Alabama also needs South Carolina to triumph over Clemson. A Gamecocks' victory might push them ahead of Alabama in the rankings, although the Crimson Tide's previous win over South Carolina might help them maintain their edge.

Alabama could still benefit from other unexpected outcomes. A Notre Dame loss to USC would be advantageous, given Notre Dame's existing blemish from a loss to Northern Illinois. Similarly, a defeat for Indiana against Purdue or a Tennessee loss to Vanderbilt could further reshape the playoff landscape, potentially favoring Alabama.

With these various scenarios in play, Alabama could find itself in the playoffs, possibly leading to narratives of luck or undeserved entry. However, history shows that such a path has previously led to national championships for Alabama, as seen in 2017 and 2011. Ultimately, if the dominoes fall into place, the Crimson Tide could again defy expectations and secure their spot in the playoffs.