As Week 7 closes, the race for the College Football Playoff (CFP) Top 12 intensifies, and midseason projections begin to take shape. This article examines how the committee could stack the nation’s best teams after Week 7, with the Ohio State Buckeyes positioned as the team to beat. By analyzing the core factors that drive CFP rankings—strength of schedule, quality wins, conference championship implications, head-to-head results, and overall record—this piece outlines a plausible framework for the playoff picture at midseason. Key factors the committee weighs in midseason rankings: - Strength of schedule and quality wins across the slate - Conference championship opportunities and title implications - Head-to-head results and performance against common opponents - Overall record, margins of victory, and loss proximity - Injury status and the remaining, high-stakes games on the schedule Midseason contenders typically combine undefeated or near-undefeated records with marquee wins, creating a balanced Top 12 that captures both consistency and schedule strength. The Buckeyes’ blend of high-powered offense, stout defense, and notable wins positions them at the forefront of these projections, while the rest of the Top 12 features a mix of conference powerhouses, regional rivals, and out-of-conference results that support a realistic playoff scenario. Why Ohio State is considered the team to beat: - Explosive, efficient offense that sustains drives and consistently scores - Versatile, clamp-down defense that disrupts opponents and limits scoring - Proven performance against ranked teams and a robust strength of schedule - Clear path to a conference championship with remaining high-profile games As Week 7 data continues to surface, expect the Top 12 to reflect a careful balance between undefeated records and high-quality wins. The playoff landscape will continue to evolve as conference championships approach and late-season clashes redefine the rankings. Note: Don’t miss out on limited-time discounts across all categories this week!