A detailed view of the game logo is seen on the field prior to the 2025 CFP National Championship between the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga., on Jan. 20, 2025. Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
The 12-team College Football Playoff field and the First Round Games are upon us, starting on Dec. 19. While No. 2 Ohio State is the favorite, and each of the four teams with first round byes compose the four biggest favorites, each of the dozen teams has a legitimate chance of winning the national championship.
Ross Kelly is a sports journalist who has been published by ESPN, CBS and USA Today. He has also done statistical research for Stats Inc. and Synergy Sports Technology. A graduate of LSU, Ross resides in Houston.
