As Week 8 ends, the College Football Playoff (CFP) landscape is primed for another round of reshuffling. This analysis explains how the committee could stack the top teams and why Alabama stands out as a major riser in the final rankings. By focusing on the CFP's ranking logic, potential positions, and the playoff implications, fans get a clear view of what's at stake. How the CFP committee ranks teams: - The committee weighs a team's overall resume, including wins and losses, quality wins against strong opponents, and strength of schedule. - Conference championships and head-to-head results also factor into the discussion, along with the likelihood of continued performance. Why Alabama could make a big move: - A strong performance in the latest game and a favorable set of outcomes elsewhere could propel Alabama into the upper portion of the top 12. - If Alabama demonstrates consistency and the conference remains competitive, the committee could view their resume as more compelling than it was earlier in the season. - The ripple effect of Week 9 results could push other contenders down, creating room for Alabama to climb into the top six or higher. What to watch as Week 9 approaches: - Key conference results and potential upsets that could alter the balance in the top 12. - How the committee handles close wins versus dominant performances. - The ongoing race for conference titles and resume quality, which continues to shape the CFP projections. Bottom line: - After Week 8, a dramatic shift in the CFP top 12 is on the table, with Alabama positioned as a major mover depending on upcoming results. For fans tracking the playoff chase, every late-season result matters as the committee refines the ranking ladder toward selection Sunday.