The Playoff Predicament: A Look at the CFP Field The College Football Playoff (CFP) selection process is inherently complex, with 31 teams considered legitimate contenders by ESPN Research.
To make the cut, teams need to win big games and accumulate impressive résumés to impress the selection committee.
Top programs like Alabama and Ohio State have varying estimates of how many teams have a realistic shot at making the playoffs, ranging from 10 to 20.