Pool Poll: Michigan and Oklahoma State finally knock off rivals, while North Texas ends UTSA's perfect season.

Only two remain in the undefeated ranks of college football (Georiga/Cincinnati), and Michigan threw its hat into the conversation for the College Football Playoffs for the first time this season after their dominating victory over the Buckeyes in Ann Arbor.

Rivalry week lived up to the hype as Mike Gundy finally defeated Lincoln Riley at Bedlam, and Auburn gave everything they had without their starting quarterback against Alabama. That game ended in a four-overtime thriller that saw the Crimson Tide rally from a 10-0 hole to win 24-22. Minnesota spoiled Wisconsin's dream of making it to the Big Ten Championship with a victory that also snatched Paul Bunyan's Axe from the Badgers. The biggest blow outside the Power 5 came when North Texas shellacked UTSA to end their perfect season and the Mean Green now qualify for a bowl game.

There are currently 84 teams that have qualified for the 82 spots for bowl games. That won't change going into next week because both Cal and USC lost this weekend, making them ineligible despite playing each other next week. Hawai'i is one of those teams that qualified at 6-7, but a rule allows them to be bowl eligible and they very well could claim a spot in the Hawai'i Bowl depending on how things play out. East Carolina is the first team to accept a bowl bid as they will appear in the Military Bowl. With all those bowl teams out there and the conference championships coming up, let's take a look at the Conference Power Index (Top 50 schools - Bottom 30 schools, bold denotes teams in conference championship).

SEC: +6 (Top 50: Georgia, Alabama, Ole Miss, Kentucky, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Mississippi State; Bottom 30: Vanderbilt)

Big Ten +5 (T50: Michigan, Iowa, Ohio St, Michigan St, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Purdue, Penn St; B30: Nebraska, Northwestern, Indiana)

ACC: +3 (T50: Pitt, Wake Forest, Clemson, NCST, Miami; B30: Georgia Tech, Duke)

Big 12: +3 (T50: Oklahoma St, Oklahoma, Baylor, Kansas St; B30: Kansas)

Mountain West: +3 (San Diego St, Fresno St, Air Force, Utah St, Nevada, Boise St; B30: Colorado St, New Mexico, UNLV)

Pac 12: +1 (T50: Oregon, Utah, UCLA, Arizona St, Oregon St; B30: Colorado, Washington, Stanford, Arizona)

Sun Belt: +1 (T50: Louisiana, Appalachian State, Coastal Carolina; B30: Georgia Southern, Arkansas State)

American: 0 (T50: Cincinnati, Houston, SMU, UCF; B30: Navy, Temple, USF, Tulane)

CUSA: -1 (T50: UTSA, UAB, Western Kentucky; B30: Rice, Louisiana Tech, Southern Miss, FIU)

MAC: -2 (T50: Central Michigan, Northern Illinois, Kent St (No. 56), B30: Bowling Green, Buffalo, Ohio, Akron)

Top 25:

1. Georgia (12-0, 56.9 WP, 0 LP)

Last Week: 1

The Bulldogs took care of business in Atlanta against Georgia Tech, and will stay in Atlanta, but move indoors to take on Alabama for the SEC Championship game. Even with a loss to the Crimson Tide, it seems almost a sure bet that Georgia is headed to the CFP.

Up Next: Alabam (11-1, No. 3)

2. Cincinnati (12-0, 76.4 WP, 0 LP)

LW: 2

The Bearcats took care of ECU and now set up a showdown for the American Athletic Conference Championship with Houston. The good news for Cincinnati is that the Cougars come into the game as a ranked opponent, which is the first that Cincinnati has faced since Notre Dame. A win all but guarantees a spot in the CFP for UC, but a loss likely spells doom on a magical run.

Up Next: Houston (11-1, No. 10)

3. Alabama (11-1, 63.6 WP, 48 LP)

LW: 6

The Crimson Tide nearly sealed their fate with a loss in the Iron Bowl, but they rallied and stayed alive in the CFP conversation. It'll be interesting to see if they lose to Georgia what will happen to them since their lone loss is to a Texas A&M team that now has 4 losses this season.

Up Next: Georgia (12-0, No. 1)

4. Michigan (11-1, 69.5 WP, 5 LP)

LW: 9

Jim Harbaugh can finally erase the zeroes off his ledger when it comes to wins over Ohio State and appearances in the Big Ten Championship. A win over Iowa would also mean the Wolverines' first-ever appearance in the CFP. The Hawkeyes will need an answer for Hasan Haskins, who scored 5 times on the ground against the Buckeyes.

Up Next: Iowa (10-2, No. 11)

5. Oklahoma St (11-1, 70 WP, 51 LP)

LW: 10

The Cowboys rallied to knock off the Sooners and avoided a rematch with their in-state rivals in the Big 12 Championship. They'll take on a Baylor team that they defeated 24-14 earlier this season. Oklahoma State will need a lot of help to make the CFP because the committee doesn't seem to respect the quality of wins in the Big 12.

Up Next: Baylor (10-2, No. 16)

6. Notre Dame (11-1, 70.4 WP, 19 LP)

LW: 7

Speaking of teams the committee doesn't respect, the Fighting Irish keep winning big, but the quality of their opponents is rather lacking thanks to a subpar Pac 12 and ACC schedule. 8 of their wins came against teams that finished .500 or worse.

Up Next: New Year's Six Bowl Game

7. Louisiana (11-1, 73.1 WP, 30 LP)

LW: 8

The Ragin' Cajuns haven't lost since Week 1 at Texas, but have played with fire throughout the season, including a 21-16 escape in the Battle of the Bayou. They'll face Appalachian St in the Sun Belt Championship, a team they walloped 41-13 earlier in the season.

Up Next: App St (10-2, No. 21)

8. San Diego State (11-1, 80.7 WP, 26 LP)

LW: 11

The Aztecs used their defense to swarm Boise State and secure their spot in the Mountain West Championship. That win knocked out the Broncos and then a win by Utah State over New Mexico placed the Aggies in the Championship ahead of Air Force. The Aggies and Aztecs did not meet during the regular season.

Up Next: Utah State (9-3, No. 29)

9. UTSA (11-1, 87.3 WP, 88 LP)

LW: 3

The Roadrunners suffered a beatdown at the hands of North Texas as they finally fell off the tightrope they had been walking in CUSA play. They still earn their first appearance in the championship game and will face a high-scoring offense in Western Kentucky that hasn't scored less than 31 points this season. The two faced each other in a high-scoring affair that saw the Roadrunners win 52-46.

Up Next: WKU (8-4, No. 43)

10. Houston (11-1, 96.5 WP, 78 LP)

LW: 12

The Cougars lone blemish came in week one against Texas Tech, but they've been rolling ever since. A throttling of UConn ensured that Houston would head into their matchup with Cincinnati as a ranked opponent.

Up Next: Cincinnati (12-0, No. 2)

11. Iowa (10-2, 58.9 WP, 55 LP)

LW: 13

The Hawkeyes nearly fell into the trap that Nebraska has been setting for all their Big Ten opponents this year, but like they did against Michigan and Ohio State, the Cornhuskers failed to finish off Iowa. A loss by Wisconsin allowed them to sneak into the Big Ten Championship.

Up Next: Michigan (11-1, No. 4)

12. Ole Miss (10-2, 61.8 WP, 21 LP)

LW: 14

The Rebels won the Egg Bowl, but have to sit and watch Alabama play in the SEC Championship yet again. Ole Miss has a chance to play in perhaps the Sugar Bowl or the Peach Bowl.

Up Next: Bowl Game

13. Oklahoma (10-2, 61.9 WP, 15.5 LP)

LW: 4

The hits keep coming as Lincoln Riley not only lost to OKST for the first time but is now headed out west to fill the vacancy at USC. Rumors have Kliff Kingsbury leaving the NFL to take the job, but the fact is, the Sooners are out of the Big 12 Championship and out a head coach.

Up Next: Despair

14. Ohio State (10-2, 63.9 WP, 12 LP)

LW: 5

The Buckeyes are in disbelief after having the rear ends handed to them by the ground game of Michigan. Ryan Day lost to a Big Ten opponent for the first time in his career, but it seems like the Buckeyes aren't completely out of the conversation for the CFP, imagine a Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, and Ohio State final to settle the old debate about which conference is better.

Up Next: Learning that removing the letter M from words is idiotic.

15. Michigan State (10-2, 65.5 WP, 29 LP)

LW: 16

The Spartans are stunned after watching Ohio State not score at will like they did against Sparty. Instead, they used what little players they had not battling the flu, to hold off Penn State. MSU will now await whatever bowl game welcomes them.

Up Next: Bowl Game

16. Baylor (10-2, 66.2 WP, 54.5 LP)

LW: 15

The Bears held off a late field goal from Texas Tech to edge out the Red Raiders and make their way into the Big 12 Championship. They'll look to avenge their loss to Oklahoma State and hope for a New Year's Six bowl.

Up Next: Bowl Game

17. Pitt (10-2, 76.3 WP, 90.5 LP)

LW: 17

The Panthers avoided any issues with Syracuse and are now focused on winning the ACC for the first time and their first conference title since they won the Big East in 2010. It'll be a battle of the QBs as Kenny Pickett battles Sam Hartman in a potentially high-scoring affair.

Up Next: Wake Forest (10-2, No. 18)

18. Wake Forest (10-2, 76.5 WP, 52 LP)

LW: 19

The Demon Deacons tried to blow their shot at the ACC Championship by losing twice in their last four games, but they won enough to make it. They are playing for their first ACC title since 2006.

Up Next: Pitt (10-2, No. 17)

19. Oregon (10-2, 77.5 WP, 48.5 LP)

LW: 20

The Ducks took care of the Beavers to earn their spot in the Pac 12 Championship, but Oregon must avenge an embarrassing loss to Utah. The Utes pounded Oregon 38-7 just two weeks ago. The winner likely earns a trip to the Rose Bowl.

Up Next: Utah (9-3, No. 25)

20. BYU (10-2, 78.2 WP, 52 LP)

LW: 19

The Cougars needed a late rally to defeat USC and keep the Trojans from becoming bowl eligible. BYU is likely set for an appearance in the Independence Bowl.

Up Next: Bowl Game

21. Appalachian State (10-2, 85.3, 47 LP)

LW: 21

The Mountaineers took care of Georgia Southern in their rivalry game and look to earn a victory over a Louisiana team that is in search of a new coach after having theirs poached by a Power 5 school, something App State is very familiar with the last 5 years.

Up Next: Louisiana (11-1, No. 7)

22. Coastal Carolina (10-2, 98.8 WP, 67 LP)

LW: 22

The Chanticleers needed overtime to thwart an upset by South Alabama and kept the Jaguars from becoming bowl eligible. Coastal will be headed to a bowl game, perhaps the Lending Tree Bowl?

Up Next: Bowl Game

23. Fresno State (9-3, 72.4 WP, 61 LP)

LW: 25

The Bulldogs will reflect on what might have been and will instead watch the Mountain West Championship from the comforts of their own homes. Fresno State might get a trip back to Hawai'i where they can relive the nightmare game they played against the Rainbow Warriors that kept them from the title game.

Up Next: Bowl Game

24. Clemson Tigers (9-3, 76.4 WP, 34.3 LP)

LW: 28

It's been a while, but Clemson is back in the Top 25 with a beatdown of South Carolina, 30-0. The Tigers finally saw their CFP run come crashing down, first with a loss to Georgia, and then defeats at NCST and Pitt led them to rely on Wake Forest to lose in order to make the ACC Championship, but the Deacons refused and so Dabo and the boys will watch old game film and prepare for their bowl.

Up Next: Bowl Game

25. Utah (9-3, 76.8 WP, 24.7 LP)

LW: 26

The Utes cruised past Colorado and now look to destroy Oregon once again. A win for Utah might mean a Rose Bowl appearance against either Michigan State or Ohio State.

Up Next: Oregon (10-2, No. 19)

Dropped Out: Texas A&M, Wisconsin

Waiting List: NCST, Air Force, Kentucky, Utah State, Army, Texas A&M, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Minnesota, UCLA

Bonus:

MAC Championship

Northern Illinois (8-4, No. 38 vs Kent State 7-5, No. 56)

The Huskies look to avenge an earlier loss to the Golden Flashes when they converge on Motown this Friday.

The Top 25 and the Rivalry Matchups That Will Play a Part in the College Football Playoff Selection

 It's finally here, rivalry week, and what better way to celebrate than a marquee matchup in the best rivalry game out there, The Game. Michigan and Ohio State didn't drop their focus this week as they each posted over 50 points in their wins to set up a Top 6 matchup for a shot at the Big Ten title. Equally important is "Bedlam" which features a Top 10 matchup between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State with Big 12 title implications on the line. After a stunning loss to Utah, Oregon now has to knock off in-state rival Oregon St to win their share of the Pac-12, lest the Beavers snatch it away from them.

Perhaps the most surprising rivalry game with small implications is Florida against Florida State, with both teams needing a win to become bowl eligible. 72 teams have achieved bowl eligibility and there are just 10 spots left with 22 teams vying to make it in. Miami (OH) and Kent State face off to decide who wins the MAC East and plays Northern Illinois in Detroit, while Western Kentucky and Marshall square off for a chance to claim their spot in the Conference USA Championship game against UTSA. 

The Mountain West is all kinds of fun with Air Force, Boise State, Fresno State, San Diego State, and Utah State all competing for their spot in the MW Championship. The toughest path will belong to the  Broncos and Aztecs who face each other this Friday.

Heading into the last week of the season, here's a look at the Power Index for each conference:

SEC: +6 (Top 50-Georgia, Alabama, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Arkansas, Texas A&M, Kentucky; Bottom 30-Vanderbilt)

Big Ten: +5 (T50-Ohio State, Michigan, Michigan State, Wisconsin, Iowa, Penn State, Purdue, Minnesota; B30-Nebraska, Northwestern, Indiana)

Big 12: +3 (T50-Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Baylor, Kansas State; B30-Kansas)

ACC: +2 (T50-Pitt, Wake Forest, Clemson, NCST; B30-Georgia Tech, Duke)

MWC: +2 (T50-San Diego St, Air Force, Boise St, Utah St, Fresno St; B30-New Mexico, UNLV, Colorado St)

American: +1 (T50-Cincinnati, Houston, SMU, UCF, ECU; B30-Temple, Navy, USF, Tulane)

PAC 12: +1 (T50-Oregon, Utah, UCLA, Arizona St, Oregon St; B30-Washington, Arizona, Stanford)

Sun Belt: 0 (T50-Lousiana, Appalachian St, Coastal Carolina; B30-Texas St, Georgia Southern, Arkansas St)

MAC: -1 (T50-Northern Illinois, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan; B30-Buffalo, Ohio, BGSU, Akron)

Conference USA: -2 (T50-UTSA, UAB; B30-Rice, La Tech, Southern Miss, FIU)

Top 25:

Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate (UGA leads 68-41-5, won last 3)

1. Georgia (11-0, 52.5 WP, 0 LP)

This rivalry is merely standing in the way of the Bulldogs' true desires, a shot at Alabama to win the SEC Championship, and then take care of business for their first National Championship in the College Football Playoff era.

Up Next: Georgia Tech (3-8, No. 105)

2. Cincinnati (11-0, 79.1 WP, 0 LP)

The Bearcats finally did what they needed to, and did it against one of the better teams in the American in SMU. Now they have to avoid a potential trap by a respectable ECU team that is bowl eligible for the first time since 2014. UC will take on Houston in the American Championship game and hope it's enough to get them into the CFP.

Up Next: East Carolina (7-4, No. 47)

3. UTSA (11-0, 87.3 WP, 0 LP)

A whacky play at the end of the game gave UTSA the go-ahead score to remain undefeated with a win over UAB. The Roadrunners get in-state rival North Texas, who has won four straight and are trying to become bowl eligible with a win. At the least UTSA has a spot in the Conference USA title game and will face the winner of the Marshall/Western Kentucky game.

Up Next: North Texas (5-6, No. 88)

Bedlam (Oklahoma leads 90-18-7, and have won last 6)

4. Oklahoma (10-1, 61.9 WP, 21 LP)

The Sooners have dominated this series in the past, but the Cowboys could give them fits as both are trying to get into the Big 12 Championship, and perhaps the CFP. Oklahoma edged out Iowa State on Saturday to continue to be the lead dog in the Big 12.

Up Next: Oklahoma State (10-1, No. 10)

The Game (Michigan leads 58-51-6, OSU has won last 8)

5. Ohio State (10-1, 63.9 WP, 15 LP)

This has been a lopsided rivalry the last decade-plus, and the Buckeyes put out a statement in their 56-7 drubbing of No. 7 Michigan State. Ohio State is clicking now that Garrett Wilson is back to give Brutus and the gang a bevy of skill players. A win over TTUN puts OSU in the Big Ten Championship game, likely against Wisconsin or Iowa, before setting their sights on the CFP.

Up Next: Michigan (10-1, No. 9)

Iron Bowl (Bama leads 47-37-1, teams have split last 4 meetings)

6. Alabama (10-1, 64.3 WP, 48 LP)

Perhaps the evenest rivalry discussed so far, the Crimson Tide fought their way to win over the surprise of the SEC, Arkansas, but Auburn killed some of the hype by losing three straight heading into the contest. Alabama has bigger fish to fry in Georgia and the CFP, but they'll have to keep on their toes or risk not being invited at all.

Up Next: Auburn (6-5, No. 57)

7. Notre Dame (10-1, 67.2 WP, 19 LP)

The Fighting Irish rely on their Power 5 schedule mates to be good enough that it makes them look better when they win. Unfortunately, USC, Georgia Tech, and now Stanford are all on their way to losing seasons, and with no conference championship to play in, the Irish could be on the outside looking in, especially since their lone loss is to Cincinnati, who is also trying to make it as an outside hopeful.

Up Next: Stanford (3-8, No. 102)

Battle on the Bayou (Louisiana leads 30-25 and has won last 3)

8. Louisana (10-1, 70.6 WP, 30 LP)

The Ragin's Cajuns will take on their pesky in-state rivals, who are fresh off giving LSU more than they wanted in their paycheck game. Louisiana goes to the Sun Belt Championship no matter the outcome, but the bigger question will be if Billy Napier becomes yet another coach plucked away from Lafayette.

Up Next: Louisiana Monroe (4-7, No. 98)

9. Michigan (10-1, 75.9 WP, 5 LP)

The Wolverines answered the OSU beatdown of MSU, with an impressive win over the less stellar competition in Maryland. If Blake Corum can play then it might make things interesting, but the defense will have to find a way to make the Buckeyes play like they did against Nebraska and not like the high-powered offense that smacked around Sparty. A win would give the Wolverines their first-ever appearance in the Big Ten Championship, but can Jim Harbaugh finally get it done?

Up Next: TOSU (10-1, No. 5)

10. Oklahoma St (10-1, 76.6 WP, 51 LP)

The Cowboys need to snap this losing skid to Boomer Sooner if they want a chance to keep playing in games that aren't sponsored by Valero. Mike Gundy is feeling the Harbaugh blues against Lincoln Riley who owns his mulleted counterpart.

Up Next: Oklahoma (10-1, No. 4)

11. San Diego St (10-1, 85.3 WP, 26 LP)

The last coach on this list to beat Ohio State was Brady Hoke, who is now trying to lead his Aztecs to an appearance in the Mountain West Championship, but they'll have to defeat a rising Boise State squad that has won four straight and five of their last six. However it goes, it will likely be close, as the Aztecs have won 6 games by 7 points or less, including a 3 overtime thriller against Utah.

Up Next: Boise State (7-4, No. 35)

12. Houston (10-1, 93.3 WP, 78 LP)

The Cougars are on a collision course with Cincinnati to upend the Bearcats dreams of a National Title after winning 10 straight. It should be 11 straight as Houston welcomes the hapless UConn Huskies in a game that sounds more interesting on the hardwood. Dana Holgorsen has done a miracle turnaround after two years ago when players were quitting the team.

Up Next: UConn (1-10, No. 129)

The Heroes Game (Nebraska leads 29-19-3, Iowa has won last 6)

13. Iowa (9-2, 53.3 WP, 55 LP)

The Hawkeyes and Cornhuskers had played plenty of times before Nebraska joined the Big Ten, but within the last decade, they've begun to call it The Heroes Game. It should be interesting as Nebraska has been so close in so many games against Top 25 opponents this season and Iowa is all over the place when it comes to playing consistently. The defense should thrive as Adrian Martinez is turnover prone which could lead to seven straight in the series and a trip to Indianapolis, depending on the outcome of Minnesota/Wisconsin.

Up Next: Nebraska (3-8, No. 109)

Egg Bowl (Ole Miss leads 63-48-6, Mississippi State has won 3 of the last 5)

14. Ole Miss (9-2, 64.7 WP, 21 LP)

Forget Lions and Bears, this is the Thanksgiving showdown I'm most excited about. This is the rivalry that gave us the dog peeing celebration that cost Ole Miss the game after they missed the game-tying extra point when it was pushed back 15 yards in 2019 (see picture above). Now mix in Mike Leach and Lane Kiffin and you've got more flavor than the pumpkin pie you'll be eating. If you like points, then stay tuned to watch Will Rogers and Matt Corral sling the pigskin around.

Up Next: Mississippi State (7-4, No. 36)

15. Baylor (9-2, 66.1 WP, 54.5 LP)

The Bears have a shot to get into the Big 12 Championship with a win over Texas Tech, but they'll need to have Oklahoma State win since the Cowboys hold the tiebreaker over them, while Baylor holds the tiebreaker over the Sooners. A win could get them into a New Year's Day bowl game, which would be a nice finish for a team that won just two games last year.

Up Next: Texas Tech (6-5, No. 67)

16. Michigan St (9-2, 68.6 WP, 29 LP)

Sparty was flat-out embarrassed on Saturday in Columbus. They'll get little time to rest as Penn State looks to salvage their season and maybe get into a slightly better bowl game at the expense of MSU. 

Up Next: Penn State (7-4, No. 38)

17. Pitt (9-2, 76.2 WP, 90.5 LP)

Hard to believe that this team lost earlier in the season to Western Michigan, but the Panthers are ready to roll in the ACC Championship game against Wake Forest, Clemson, or NCST, but they'll have to square off with Syracuse first. Kenny Pickett has a chance to eclipse the 4,000 yards passing mark and potentially 40 touchdowns, which might get him an invite to New York.

Up Next: Syracuse (5-6, No. 77)

18. BYU (9-2, 76.4 WP, 52 LP)

The Cougars have a chance to keep USC from going bowling before going to their own random bowl game. That's pretty much all they've got going on.

Up Next: USC (4-6, No. 94)

19. Wake Forest (9-2, 77.4 WP, 52 LP)

Despite being routed by Clemson, the Demon Deacons still have a chance to play Pitt in the ACC Championship. All they have to do is win over Boston College, or else watch NCST or Clemson go to Charlotte instead. Sam Hartman can certainly sling it and a win could perhaps get him to New York on an outside chance.

Up Next: Boston College (6-5, No. 68)

The game formerly known as Civil War (Oregon leads 66-48-10, Oregon State won the last meeting)

20. Oregon (9-2, 81.8 WP, 48.5 LP)

The Ducks had their playoff hopes crushed by Utah and now have to fight to keep their Pac 12 title hopes alive. If you like colorful uniforms, this is the rivalry for you. The Beavers and Ducks play in Nike's backyard and are treated to a wide variety of unis. Oregon is trying to avoid losing back-to-back games to Oregon State for the first time since 2006-07. A win gives them a rematch against Utah in the Pac 12 Championship.

Up Next: Oregon State (7-4, No. 39)

21. Appalachian St (9-2, 82 WP, 47 LP)

The Mountaineers punched their ticket to the Sun Belt Championship against Louisiana and this weekend's game against Georgia Southern should just be a formality. However, it turns out this is a rivalry called "Deeper than Hate," so there could be an upset brewing. The Mountaineers lead the series 19-15-1.

Up Next: Georgia Southern (3-8, No. 115)

22. Coastal Carolina (9-2, 99.7 WP, 67 LP)

Another strong season for the Chanticleers comes to a close as they'll try for ten wins against a South Alabama team that has lost four of its last five. 

Up Next: South Alabama (5-6, No. 91)

23. Texas A&M (8-3, 58.8 WP, 29 LP)

The Aggies can put the dagger in the Ed Orgeron lame-duck coaching staff that's been roaming the sidelines in Baton Rouge. A nine-win season is probably a bit disappointing for Texas A&M considering they went 0-2 against the state of Mississippi. Rumors have Jimbo Fisher linked to LSU, but why mess a good thing and it's not like he'd avoid Alabama.

Up Next: LSU (5-6, No. 88)

Paul Bunyan's Axe (Wisconsin leads 44-25-3 and have won 16 of last 17)

24. Wisconsin (8-3, 69.1 WP, 18.7 LP)

Perhaps my favorite trophy of rivalry week, Paul Bunyan's Axe will carry extra weight for the Badgers who will try and win their way into a spot in the Big Ten Championship against either Ohio State or Michigan. Minnesota is no pushover like they've been in the rivalries history, and the Gophers won the axe in 2019. What makes this rivalry even better, is that both schools play outside, up north, in late November. I'd like to see the Iron Bowl match that.

Up Next: Minnesota (7-4, No. 43)

25. Fresno St (8-3, 70.4 WP, 61 LP)

The Bulldogs have some big wins this season, but they'll need a win over San Jose State and a loss by San Diego State to Boise State, to get a shot at the Mountain West title. Fresno State won the head-to-head with the Aztecs, but a stunning loss to the Rainbow Warriors on the islands paired with a loss at home against the Broncos has led to Fresno State relying on help.

Up Next: San Jose State (5-6, No. 89)

Waiting List:

Utah, Air Force, Clemson, NCST, Northern Illinois, Kentucky, SMU, Utah State, Army, Boise St

Saturday Shakeup: Chaos Reigns as Number of Unbeatens shrinks to 4

 Only four teams remain unblemished after Wake Forest and Michigan State were upset on Saturday. On a positive note though, every team in the FBS will leave with a win as Arizona beat a COVID devastated Cal squad, and UNLV blitzed New Mexico to snap the two longest losing streaks in the nation. Kansas, Arkansas State, and FIU are tied for the longest skid at 8 games, all after winning their season opener against an FCS opponent.

The back end of the Pool Poll was equally chaotic as 3 teams exited (Liberty, Fresno State, and Auburn) and 3 fresh faces entered the Top 25 (App State, NCST, and Pitt). On a personal note, making an appearance in the Top 50 is my beloved Eastern Michigan Eagles, who can reach the 7 win mark with a Tuesday night win over the boys from Athens (the Hocking variety, not the National Champion variety). Quick Lane Bowl here we come!

Here's a quick conference Power Index breakdown (Teams in the Top 50 - Teams Ranked 100-130)

SEC (+6)

Big Ten (+5)

ACC (+4)

Big 12 (+4)

MWC (+2)

Sun Belt (+1)

Independent (+1)

Pac 12 (Even)

AAC (-1)

MAC (-1)

CUSA (-1)

Top 25:

1. 

Georgia (9-0, 42.6 WP, 0 LP)

    The Bulldogs posted their 8th straight win by 14 points or more. Tennessee is the bumpiest speed bump left to bulldoze before cupcake Charleston Southern (FCS) and Georgia Tech.

LW: 1

Up Next: Tennessee (5-4, No. 63)

2. 

Oklahoma (9-0, 63.3 WP, 0 LP)

The Sooners still had to rally and change quarterbacks midway through their bye week, but in the end, they remain one of the final four undefeated teams. It's a bit of a murder's row, Big 12 edition, as the Cyclones, Bears, and Cowboys have all resided in the Top 25 and even the Top 10 at some point this season.

LW: 2

Up Next: Iowa State (6-3, No. 41)

3. 

Cincinnati (9-0, 81.4 WP, 0 LP)

    Even a visit from College Gameday couldn't change the formula in Cincinnati. A should-be cupcake game + double-digit lead + need a big play to hold on for a win. A goal-line stand was in order against Tulsa as the Golden Hurricane fumbled into the endzone on fourth and goal to preserve a 28-20 victory. USF gave Houston all they could handle, so next week could be another week of unimpressive wins.

LW: 4

Up Next: USF (2-7, No. 115)

4. 

UTSA (9-0, 88.1 WP, 0 LP)

    The Roadrunners just keep winning, a fact that meant nothing to the selection committee as they were left out in the cold. This week's win over UTEP was their most impressive and UAB seems to be the only school standing in their way of going undefeated in the regular season.

LW: 6

Up Next: Southern Miss (1-8, No. 129)

5. 

Alabama (8-1, 60.9 WP, 48 LP)

    The Crimson Tide were on upset alert, but LSU couldn't come through in the clutch to allow Alabama to escape at home 20-14. They'll get some time to recoup with a glorified bye week as the SEC's last season schedule is brought into the spotlight once more.

LW: 8

Up Next: New Mexico State (1-8, No. 128)

6. 

Notre Dame (8-1, 65.6 WP, 19 LP)

    The Fighting Irish seemed like they were going to struggle like everyone else had on Saturday, but instead, they rebounded and punished a struggling Navy squad, 34-6. Notre Dame is getting no help from the remainder of their schedule, as their future opponents hold a record of 12-15 combined.

LW: 7

Up Next: Virginia (6-3, No. 43)

7. 

Michigan State (8-1, 68.6 WP, 50 LP)

The Spartans and Hawkeyes can both lament the sneakiness of Purdue, who struck early and often against Michigan State to beat their second Top 5 opponent in the last month. Sometimes emotional wins can be followed by big letdowns, but Sparty will have to pick themselves up as their final 3 opponents boast a combined record of 19-8.

LW: 3

Up Next: Maryland (5-4, No.68)

8. 

Ohio State (8-1, 74.8 WP, 15 LP)

    A lackluster win in Lincoln means next week's showdown against Top 5 kryptonite Purdue is all the more interesting. If Sparty thinks their schedule is tough, then they should look at the Buckeyes, who boast the toughest 3 games left in the country, with their final 3 opponents holding a 22-5 record combined.

LW: 9

Up Next: Purdue (6-3, No.34)

9.

Lousiana (8-1, 75.3 WP, 30 LP)

    The Ragin' Cajuns punched their ticket to the Sun Belt Championship but needed some late magic to fend off Georgia State, who gave Auburn trouble earlier this season. Louisiana will have to focus on Troy and not get caught looking to their Top 50 matchup against Liberty in two weeks.

LW: 10

Up Next: Troy (5-4, No.67)

10. 

Oklahoma State (8-1, 79.1 WP, 51 LP)

    The Cowboys fell behind 3-0 against West Virginia but rattled off the final 24 points to cruise to victory while moving into second place in the Big 12. Two more wins and we could be treated to two-straight games of Bedlam.

LW: 13

Up Next: TCU (4-5, No.79)

11. 

Michigan (8-1, 81.1 WP, 5 LP)

    The Wolverines did what they needed to against Indiana, but the Hoosiers weren't a quality enough opponent to move up in the rankings. Luckily, they'll get some help if they win their next three, which all come against teams with winning records.

LW: 11

Up Next: Penn State (6-3, No.32)

12. 

Wake Forest (8-1, 84.1 WP, 68 LP)

 The Demon Deacons held a two-score lead in the fourth quarter, but for the second year in a row, the Tar Heels erased a deficit and handed Wake Forest their first loss of the season. They enter the hardest part of their season with NCST and Clemson coming in the next few weeks.

LW: 5

Up Next: NCST (7-2, No.24)

13. 

Oregon (8-1, 84.5 WP, 64 LP)

 The Ducks escaped Seattle with a win thanks to an unfortunate safety near the end of the game for Washington that put Oregon up 10 with under two minutes to play. The Ducks were somehow placed at No. 4 in the first rankings of the CFP, but they'll need to avoid a trap game against Washington State before they take care of business against a Utes' team that has won 5 of their last 6.

LW: 14

Up Next: Washington State (5-4, No.60)

14. 

San Diego State (8-1, 88.8 WP, 26 LP)

 The Aztecs struggled on the big island but were able to sneak out a win over the Rainbow Warriors. San Diego State is a hard team to figure out, but they'll need to gather that magic from their Utah game with a tough Nevada squad lurking on the horizon.

LW: 15

Up Next: Nevada (7-2, No. 26)

15. 

Houston (8-1, 96 WP, 78 LP)

 The Cougars are fortunate to have escaped Tampa with a win thanks to a tough fight from the Bulls. There's no one stopping Houston from advancing to the American Championship game, except the Cougars themselves.

LW: 17

Up Next: Temple (3-6, No. 100)

16. 

Coastal Carolina (8-1, 99.4 WP, 50 LP)

The Chanticleers were dealt a major blow with quarterback Grayson McCall suffering an injury last week against Troy, but it didn't stop them from steamrolling Georgia Southern. They'll need to watch the Louisiana game film to see what not to do in the first half against Georgia State.

LW: 18

Up Next: Georgia State (4-5, No.84)

17. 

BYU (8-2, 71.6 WP, 52 LP)

 The Cougars played essentially a full-speed practice against Idaho State (FCS) this weekend before going into an actual bye next week. It won't get much tougher against the hapless Georgia Southern Eagles. They'll finish with USC before heading to whatever pre-New Year's Eve bowl game they get into.

LW: 19

Up Next: Bye

18. 

Texas A&M (7-2, 48.4 WP, 33.5 LP)

The Aggies could probably beat the other 17 teams in front of them on this list when they are playing their best football. Texas A&M will get one last shot at a ranked opponent when they face Lane Kiffin and Ole Miss before coasting into Prairie View A&M (FCS) next week.

LW: 23

Up Next: Ole Miss (7-2, No.20)

19. 

Iowa (7-2, 50.7 WP, 55 LP)

It wasn't pretty, but the Hawkeyes got the job done against Northwestern. Minnesota lies ahead next week to begin a trio of mysterious opponents as Iowa finishes with the pesky Illinois and Nebraska.

LW: 22

Up Next: Minnesota (6-3, No.38)

20. 

Ole Miss (7-2, 63 WP, 21 LP)

The Rebels' Twitter account had some fun at the expense of former head coach, and current Liberty coach, Hugh Freeze, but it was immediately deleted after their 27-14 win over the Flames. Lane Kiffin will have to stir the pot against Texas A&M and maybe throw them off their very locked in-game.

LW: 24

Up Next: Texas A&M (7-2, No.18)

21. 

Baylor (7-2, 80.6 WP, 54.5 LP)

The Bears became the first team to lose to a TCU team not coached by Gary Patterson since 2000. The Horned Frogs stunned Baylor and sent them packing from Ft. Worth with a loss in a trap game. Perhaps Baylor was looking ahead for their big showdown against the Big 12 leaders, Oklahoma.

LW: 12

Up Next: Oklahoma (9-0, No. 2)

22. 

 Pitt (7-2, 83.1 WP, 90.5 LP)

The Kenny Pickett for Heisman campaign resumed in Durham as the Panthers' QB accounted for nearly 500 yards and 4 touchdowns. On the year he's thrown 26 touchdowns to just 3 interceptions. They'll be plenty of sports to score when they take on UNC next week.

LW: 30

Up Next: UNC (5-4, No.53)

23. 

 Appalachian State (7-2, 83.7 WP, 47 LP)

The Mountaineers easily dispatched of Butch Jones and his pesky Red Wolves to hand Arkansas State their 8th straight loss. The boys from Boone control their own destiny and are ready to avenge their lone Sun Belt loss so far this season if they were to play Louisiana in the conference title game.

LW: 29

Up Next: South Alabama (5-4, No.75)

24. 

NCST (7-2, 83.7 WP, 59 LP)

The Wolfpack get a chance to put themselves in a position to advance to the ACC title game. It starts with a showdown next week against Wake Forest before taking on the conference thorns Syracuse and UNC. 

LW: 31

Up Next: Wake Forest (8-1, No. 12)

25. 

SMU (7-2, 93.3 WP, 49.5 LP)

The Mustangs were handed their second-straight loss when they were edged by Memphis, 28-25. It won't get easier with UCF and Cincinnati due up next.

LW: 16

Up Next:  UCF (6-3, No.42)

Dropped Out: Fresno State, Liberty, Auburn

On the outside looking in:

26. Nevada

27. Utah State

28. Fresno State

29. Liberty

30. Wisconsin

31. Arkansas

32. Penn State

33. Auburn

34. Purdue

35. Kentucky

Sparty is One of the Six Undefeated Teams Left, But Where Do They Stand in the Pool Poll?

     With the first College Football Playoff rankings coming out this Tuesday, what better time to roll out the first regular-season rankings of the Pool Poll? Of course, this Tuesday is also the return of MACtion during the weekdays, which includes Eastern Michigan making an appearance on ESPN 2 against Toledo.

    There have been many surprises in the early season with Michigan State and Wake Forest sitting atop the Big Ten and ACC respectively. Georgia looks unstoppable, while Florida State, Miami (FL), USC, and LSU are all .500 or worse. Here's a quick look at the first conference Power Index, which measures the number of teams in the Top 50 per conference and subtracts those ranked 100-130 or the least successful. This look should give you a pretty good idea why so many teams are abandoning Conference USA.

SEC (+7)

ACC (+4)

Big 12 (+4)

Big Ten (+4)

Mountain West (+3)

Pac 12 (+1)

Independent (Even)

American (Even)

Sun Belt (Even)

MAC (-1)

CUSA (-3)

Here's a look at the Top 25 and a breakdown of what they have left.

1. 

Georgia (8-0, 36.9 Average rank of teams they've defeated or WP, 0 Average rank of teams they've lost to or LP)

The Bulldogs are running over anyone that dares get on the same field as them. Aside from their 10-3 win over Clemson to start the season, their next closest game was a 30-13 romp over Kentucky. A 34-7 drubbing of Florida allowed them to win the SEC East already since the SEC has one of the worst setups for scheduling. They play two-straight SEC contests before playing an FCS opponent and Georgia Tech to end the year. The only question is who survives in the crowded SEC West to take them on in December.

Up Next: Missouri (4-4, No. 88)

Toughest Remaining Opponent: Tennessee

2.

Oklahoma (9-0, 63.3 WP, 0 LP)

Unlike Georgia, the Sooners are nothing like a sure thing to make the College Football Playoffs. Oklahoma has 5 wins by just 7 points or fewer and needed a comeback to survive hapless Kansas. It doesn't get easier as their three remaining opponents have all spent time in the Top 25 throughout the season, including in-state rival Oklahoma State to close the year.

Up Next: Bye and then Baylor (7-1, No. 12)

Toughest Remaining Opponent: Oklahoma State

3.

Michigan State (8-0, 68.6 WP, 0 LP)

Kenneth Walker III is a human joystick and this fact was on full display as he ran for 5 touchdowns against 'Big Brother' (I'm not sure why idiots keep antagonizing MSU with this) to bring his season total to 14. Already at nearly 1,200 yards, he's likely headed to New York for the Heisman ceremony if he can repeat this performance against Ohio State and Penn State. Despite their performance against the Wolverines, like Oklahoma, they've certainly had their close calls against Nebraska in overtime, and Indiana in a trap game. The path to Indianapolis is in their hands, but they'll need focus because their final four opponents currently sit in the Top 51 of this poll.

Up Next: Purdue (5-3, No. 50)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Ohio State

4. 

Cincinnati (8-0, 79 WP, 0 LP)

The Bearcats are playing with fire when they need to be blowing out their unranked opponents. They suffered a blow when SMU lost to Houston, which negated a potential matchup of undefeated teams in a few weeks. UC has a quality road win against Notre Dame, but the rest of the American has been subpar, which makes the fact that the Bearcats have struggled early in games to build sizeable leads, even more glaring. It'll be interesting to see how the committee treats them.

Up Next: Tulsa (3-5, No. 101)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: SMU

5. 

Wake Forest (8-0, 84.1 WP, 0 LP)

Imagine losing Kenneth Walker and still having the season they are having? Well, the Demon Deacons are doing that because they can flat-out score. In their eight games their lowest output has been 35 points, a game they won by 21. It remains to be seen if they can hold on, but for now, they're a pretty nice story in the ACC and the nation, although they haven't been respected by the pollsters, as they just now broke into the Top 10 in the Coaches and AP Poll.

Up Next: North Carolina (4-4, No. 68)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: NCST

6.

UTSA (8-0, 94.8 WP, 0 LP)

The Roadrunners are having their greatest season ever since joining the FBS, already setting a mark for wins in a season. They have also stumbled into the Top 25 by dominating a weak Conference USA. Two of the conference's better teams are left on the schedule, including another surprise within CUSA, the UTEP Miners, who are also eligible for a bowl game this season.

Up Next: UTEP (6-2, No. 35)

7.

Notre Dame (7-1, 59.3 WP, 19 LP)

The Irish have just one loss, coming against Brian Kelly's former squad, Cincinnati. The Bearcats continued success only helps Notre Dame make their case to sneak in, but they'll likely need some help, like an Alabama or Ohio State loss. Notre Dame has struggled, but their neutral-site win over Wisconsin looks better as the Badgers wreak havoc in the Big Ten in the role of spoilers. The weakness of Notre Dame's remaining schedule is not going to help, so they have to win, but they'll need a lot of losing to make it to the Top 4.

Up Next: Navy (2-6, No. 110)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Virginia

8. 

Alabama (7-1, 59.7 WP, 48 LP)

One small misstep against Texas A&M hasn't slowed down the Crimson Tide as they'll likely be in the Top 4 when the College Football Playoff committee announces the first week of rankings. That's because they've been playing angry and drubbing middle-of-the-pack SEC teams by a combined score of 101-33 since that loss. If they really want help, they need Arkansas and Auburn to get into the Top 25, so they can drub them too.

Up Next: LSU (4-4, No. 69)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Auburn

9.

Ohio State (7-1, 70 WP, 15 LP)

The Buckeyes misstep against Oregon hasn't slowed them down as they've been taking out their frustrations on the bottom of the Big Ten. They finally got an opportunity against a top-tier Big Ten school and held their own to knock off Penn State. They'll help their cause with wins against Michigan State and Michigan, but should they make it to Indianapolis, Iowa and Wisconsin aren't exactly the elite teams they were thought to be.

Up Next: Nebraska (3-6, No. 108)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Michigan State

10.

Louisiana (7-1, 75.6 WP, 30 LP)

The Ragin' Cajuns came out flat against Texas to start the season, but they've won seven straight to make it back into the Top 25. Louisiana has played down to their competition and hasn't blown anyone out, with the exception of Appalachian State. If they escape without a loss in the regular season, they are on track for a showdown with Coastal Carolina.

Up Next: Georgia State (4-4, No. 73)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Liberty

11. 

Michigan (7-1, 76.7 WP, 5 LP)

The Wolverines established a strong running game but did a horrendous job preventing Kenneth Walker from running all over them. Michigan also wasn't helped by losing a ranked matchup with Washington after the Huskies were upset by Montana (FCS). Michigan State was just the beginning of the backloaded schedule that includes Penn State and of course, Ohio State.

Up Next: Indiana (2-6, No. 112)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Ohio State

12. 

Baylor (7-1, 80.6 WP, LP 12)

The Bears are scoring points and taking out the top of the Big 12 as they go. The lone exception came against Oklahoma State, but Baylor followed that loss with wins against West Virginia, a ranked BYU, and Texas. They'll have to avoid a trap game against a TCU team that recently fired longtime coach, Gary Patterson. 

Up Next: TCU (3-5, No. 97)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Oklahoma

13. 

Oklahoma State (7-1, 81 WP, 51 LP)

The Cowboys have played with fire throughout the season and have picked up some tough wins, but they were burned against Iowa State for their only loss. They'll play a pesky West Virginia team next, but have their eyes set on a big finale at Bedlam and Oklahoma.

Up Next: West Virginia (4-4, No. 66)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Oklahoma

14. 

Oregon (7-1, 84.7 WP, 64 LP)

I get that the Ducks went on the road and beat Ohio State, but they are struggling against lackluster Pac 12 schools that included an overtime loss to Stanford. They also had to survive Fresno State, Cal, and UCLA. However, the CFP Committee thought they looked like the No. 4 team in the country, so good for them I guess.

Up Next: Washington (4-4, No. 83)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Oregon State

15. 

San Diego State (7-1, 88.4 WP, 26 LP)

Tougher than the Pac 12 is the Mountain West, which boasts many quality teams that have caused a lot of pain for their Power 5 counterparts. The Aztecs are 2-0 against the conference but were finally upended by the equally talented Fresno State, which nearly opened with a win against Oregon. SDST has a fairly easy finish, but Nevada could be a tough contest.

Up Next: San Jose State (5-4, No. 61)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Nevada

16. 

SMU (7-1, 93.3 WP, 23 LP)

The Mustangs have suffered the same issue as the Bearcats with an underperforming AAC. That's why it's so important to win the rare marquee matchups within the conference, something SMU was unable to do against Houston, who nows controls the path to face Cincinnati in the AAC Championship.

Up Next: Mem (4-4, No. 72)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Cincinnati

17. 

Houston (7-1, 93.9 WP, 78 LP)

The Cougars are back to their 2018 form and back in the Top 25. It all comes thanks to a win over SMU last week, which has given them seven straight since their week 1 loss to Texas Tech. Houston just needs to win out and they will get a shot at Cincinnati.

Up Next: South Florida (2-6, No. 111)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Memphis

18. 

Coastal Carolina (7-1, 96.9 WP, 50 LP)

The Chanticleers were picked to bulldoze the Sun Belt Conference, but it's been a little more difficult than expected. Perfection came to an end with a trip to Boone, NC. Appalachian State beat the ranked Coastal for their first win over a ranked opponent since they beat Michigan in 2007. The hard part is out of the way in the Sun Belt schedule and they should be able to win out and maybe sneak into a New Year's Six Bowl.

Up Next: Georgia Southern (2-6, No. 117)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: South Alabama

19. 

BYU (7-2, 63.1 WP, 52 LP)

The Cougars were riding high until a loss to Boise State that they followed up with another loss to Baylor. That ended BYU's hopes at a New Year's Six bowl game, but they can still get to 10 wins on the year.

Up Next: Idaho State (FCS)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: USC

20. 

Fresno State (7-2, 65.3 WP, 60.5 LP)

The Bulldogs nearly pulled off a major upset against Oregon to begin the year but were able to knock off a ranked UCLA squad. Their dream season was upended when they were upset by the Rainbow Warriors of Hawai'i. They have a tough matchup next against an up-and-down Boise State.

Up Next: Boise State (4-4, No. 62)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: San Jose State

21. 

Liberty (7-2, 96.1 WP, 72.5 LP)

The Flames had a pretty fairly easy schedule and had some opportunities to play spoiler, but just missed their chance against Syracuse. The big surprise came when they were stunned by Louisiana Monroe for their second loss of the season. They get a spotlight on the program this weekend in the Hugh Freeze Bowl as Freeze takes the Flames to take on his former employer and Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss.

Up Next: Ole Miss (6-2, No. 24)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Ole Miss

22. 

Iowa (6-2, 41.8 WP, 55 LP)

The Hawkeyes looked to be a contender with wins over Iowa State and Penn State, but they started to get exposed against the Nittany Lions. That made the blueprint for Purdue and Wisconsin who outscored Iowa 51-14 to send them in a downward spiral. They'll hope to right the ship and get to a quality bowl game and maybe the Big Ten title game.

Up Next: Northwestern (3-5, No. 104)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Minnesota

23.  Texas A&M (6-2, 52.3 WP, 33.5 LP)

Things looked bleak for the Aggies after back-to-back losses to Arkansas and Mississippi State, but they rebounded with the best win of the year. Texas A&M pulled off a stunning upset of Alabama to get back on track. They can work their way up the rankings with wins against Auburn and Ole Miss.

Up Next: Auburn (6-2, No. 25)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Auburn

24. 

Ole Miss (6-2, 70 WP, 21 LP)

It's a log jam at the top of the SEC West, but the Rebels have done well with the exception against the state of Alabama. That's because the Crimson Tide and Auburn Tigers are responsible for their two losses. The rest of the schedule is tough with three of the final four coming against winning teams.

Up Next: Liberty (7-2, No. 21)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Texas A&M

25. 

Aubrun (6-2, 71.3 WP, 3 LP)

The Tigers got a big win over Ole Miss last weekend and will need to survive a gauntlet to finish with 10 wins. They take on Texas A&M this week, but they could play spoiler to their in-state rival and prevent the Crimson Tide from making another playoff.

Up Next: Texas A&M (6-2, No. 23)

Toughest Opponent Remaining: Alabama

Watch List:

26. Kentucky

27. Air Force

28. Minnesota

29. Appalachian State

30. Pitt

31. NCST

32. Northern Illinois

33. Utah State

34. Nevada

35. UTEP