Final Ben Ten Rankings before Playoff announcement

Well, here we are. The final weekend of the season draws near. Here's what we know: Alabama is No. 1. After that, there will be at least five teams arguing for three Playoff spots. Those five are: Clemson (if it wins the ACC), Ohio State, and the Big 12, Big Ten, and Pac-12 winners. Good luck to the Playoff Committee Saturday night into Sunday morning. For now, here's how I see it. Remember, I'm not predicting the Playoff rankings that will come out Tuesday, I'm giving you my Top 10 as of the games played Saturday.

Playoff Teams

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 12-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: USC, LSU, Auburn
This week: vs. Florida (SEC Championship)
Alabama will enter the College Football Playoff regardless of what happens in Atlanta Saturday. The Crimson Tide didn't allow a touchdown in the month of November (against LSU, Mississippi State, Chattanooga and Auburn). It appears Alabama will earn back-to-back games in the Georgia Dome, as both the SEC Championship and Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, the site of one of the semifinal games, are held in the Dome.

2) Clemson

Clemson flexed its muscle against South Carolina. The Tigers
are flexing at the right time with the Playoff around the corner.
(Photo courtesy Clemson Athletics)

Last week: No. 3
Record: 11-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn, Louisville, Florida State
This week: vs. Virginia Tech (ACC Championship)
Clemson annihilated South Carolina 56-7 and has been on a tear since losing to Pitt. The Tigers jumped out to a 28-0 lead before Wake Forest scored and led 42-0 before the Gamecocks scored. Clemson has taken its focus to a new level and though the competition hasn't been great, both Wake Forest and South Carolina are going bowling. Clemson has scored 35 points or more in five straight games, including 54+ points in two of the five. The reason for flipping Clemson ahead of Ohio State? Simple: The Tigers earned the chance to play for a conference championship. The Buckeyes did not.

3) Ohio State

Last week: No. 2
Record: 11-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Michigan
This week: N/A
Color me unimpressed with Ohio State in its games against quality competition. If not for a few boneheaded mistakes - both on the field and by the coaches - the Buckeyes could have three losses. Ohio State lost at Penn State, was fortunate the escape East Lansing as Michigan State decided to go for two points and the win - and failed - and used a handful of Michigan turnovers to upend the Wolverines in double overtime at home.

4) Washington
Last week: No. 5
Record: 11-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: N/A
This week: vs. Colorado (Friday in Pac-12 Championship)
Washington drubbed Washington State in the Apple Cup 45-17 in a game that wasn't that close. The Huskies still need to win the Pac-12 to earn a Playoff bid. Washington's résumé took a hit as both the ranked teams it had beaten - Utah and Washington State - fell out of the AP Top 25. The only quality game on UW's schedule is now a 13-point home loss to USC, which has three losses.

Next in line

5) Michigan
Last week: No. 4
Record: 10-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: Colorado, Penn State, Wisconsin
This week: N/A
Michigan led Ohio State for over half the game. The Wolverines were literally inches away from taking down the Buckeyes in Columbus. However, the takeaway here is that Michigan went 2-2 in road games. The two wins were against Rutgers and Michigan State, two teams with a combined 5-19 record. The two losses: Iowa (8-4) and Ohio State (11-1). Essentially, Michigan couldn't handle two quality opponents in their home environment. They do, however, hold wins over both teams playing in the Big Ten title game - Wisconsin and Penn State.

6) Wisconsin
Last week: 6
Record: 10-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU, Iowa, Nebraska
This week: vs. Penn State (Big Ten Championship)
We've reached the point in the rankings where Big Ten teams are actually headed to the conference championship game. Wisconsin used a second half comeback to knock off a pesky Minnesota team, 31-17. The Badgers already locked up the Big Ten West a day earlier when Nebraska was taken down by Iowa. Wisconsin's body of work is nice, with three wins over ranked teams and two seven-point losses to Michigan and Ohio State. Still, that's two losses and the Badgers will need help to jump into the Top 4.

7) Oklahoma
Last Week: 7
Record: 9-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: West Virginia
This week: vs. Oklahoma State
Oklahoma received no help this weekend. The Sooners were on a bye and hoped for chaos. Instead, much of the action ahead of them went as expected. It's been a nice turnaround since the 1-2 start for Oklahoma, but going undefeated in the Big 12 (to this point) won't win over very many committee members. OU can still win the conference by winning Bedlam over Oklahoma State in Norman. That'd send the Sooners to the Sugar Bowl against some SEC team (Auburn and Florida seem the likeliest of the bunch). An 11-win season with a New Year's Six Bowl win over an SEC team would be great momentum heading into the offseason - a far cry from the past two offseasons.

8) Penn State
Last week: 8
Record: 10-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: Ohio State, Iowa
This week: vs. Wisconsin (Big Ten Championship)
Penn State erupted for 35 points in the second half of its 45-12 win over Michigan State to clinch the Big Ten East title. The Nittany Lions earned their first trip the Big Ten Championship Game. Penn State will have a solid argument to get into the Playoff because it A) beat Ohio State head-to-head and B) would have a conference championship. That's not to say PSU will be in, but it will have a strong argument for winning the toughest conference this season.

9) Colorado
Last week: 9
Record: 10-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: Stanford
This week: vs. Washington (Friday in Pac-12 Championship)
Colorado edged Utah 27-22 in a game the Buffs needed big time. It's been a while since Folsom Field has had that kind of celebration and it is great to see what Mike MacIntyre has done in Boulder. Colorado will get its chance to put an exlamation point on its season with the Pac-12 Championship game against Washington. A win at least gets Colorado in the conversation of the Playoff, but assures the Buffaloes at least the Rose Bowl. A loss, and they could still make the Rose Bowl by being the highest ranked Pac-12 team after Washington (if Washington makes the Playoff).

10) Western Michigan
Last week: 10
Record: 12-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: vs. Ohio (Friday in MAC Championship)
Here they are, the only other undefeated team in the land after the regular season. Western Michigan can lock up a New Year's Six Bowl bid by winning the MAC title Friday against Ohio. If the Broncos do win, they will be rowing the boat from Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Arlington, Texas, for the Cotton Bowl. What a fantastic job P.J. Fleck has done.

Dropped out: None

Four on the outside: Oklahoma State, Southern Cal, Florida State, West Virginia

-BtW

Huskies, Badgers rise in this week's Ben Ten

Rivalry Week is upon us. It's perhaps the greatest week of the college football season. Bragging rights are on the line across the land and in some cases, much more. One thing for sure is a spot will open up inside the Top 4 as Michigan visits Ohio State. Will any other crazy things happen before the season ends? Only time will tell. For now, onto the Ben Ten rankings.

Playoff Teams

Nick Saban wasn't a happy camper after
a 31-3 Alabama win over Chattanooga.
(Photo courtesy USA Today Sports)

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 11-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: USC, Texas A&M, LSU
This week: vs. Auburn
Uh oh. The Crimson Tide beat Chattanooga by only 28 points. Is this team slipping?

**Currently hiding from Nick Saban who is surely sending someone to get me**

2) Ohio State

Last week: No. 2
Record: 10-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Nebraska
This week: vs. Michigan
Ohio State escaped East Lansing when Sparty decided to throw the ball on a two-point conversion (which failed) after running the ball eight straight times for 56 yards to score the TD. That kinda year for MSU. But this is about Ohio State, which now turns its attention to Michigan.

3) Clemson
Last week: No. 3
Record: 10-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn, Louisville, Florida State
This week: vs. South Carolina
Clemson claimed the ACC Atlantic Division championship for the second straight year. The Tigers had a balanced performance in a 35-13 win over Wake Forest. A visit from South Carolina is next.

4) Michigan
Last week: No. 4
Record: 10-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Colorado, Penn State, Wisconsin
This week: at Ohio State
Michigan trailed Indiana late in the third quarter before finally kicking into gear to pull away for the win. It wasn't the perfect bounce back performance, but the Wolverines have their sights set on Ohio State.

Next in line

5) Washington
Last week: No. 6
Record: 10-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Utah
This week: at Washington State
Washington looked better in a romp over Arizona State. The Pac-12 North is on the line on the Palouse as the Huskies look to take down in-state rival Washington State. A win in the Apple Cup would likely put UW back in the Top 4.

6) Wisconsin
Last week: 7
Record: 9-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU, Nebraska
This week: vs. Minnesota
The Badgers have been better than a lot of teams, but their two losses are to the two top dogs of the Big Ten East. A win against Minnesota not only gives Wisconsin Paul Bunyan's Axe, but also the Big Ten West championship and a trip to the B1G Championship Game.

7) Oklahoma
Last Week: 8
Record: 9-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: West Virginia
This week: Bye
Without a doubt, Oklahoma has been on a tear since Big 12 play began. The Sooner Schooner is rolling. The caveat, though, is the Big 12 is not on par with other conferences. OU gets the week off after demolishing West Virginia in Morgantown. Up next: Bedlam for the Big 12 championship.

8) Penn State
Last week: 10
Record: 9-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: Ohio State
This week: vs. Michigan State
Two things have to happen for Penn State. First, it must win against Michigan State. Easier said than done, yes, but the Spartans have just three wins on the season. Second, Ohio State must beat Michigan. If those two happen, the Nittany Lions will head to Indianapolis.

9) Colorado
Last week: NR
Record: 9-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: Washington State
This week: vs. Utah
What has transpired in Boulder this season is remarkable. Colorado continues to impress, taking down previously unbeaten in the conference Washington State, and can put a bow on the season by beating Utah to clinch the Pac-12 South.

10) Western Michigan
Last week: NR
Record: 11-0
Wins over currently ranked teams:
This week: None
Kudos to those in Kalamazoo, Mich., this past weekend for putting on quite a show for ESPN's College GameDay. Western Michigan, as was pointed out by one GameDay sign, has more Big Ten wins than Michigan State. That's not saying much this season, but still a proud accomplishment for the Broncos. And what's not to love about Coach P.J. Fleck?

Dropped out: Louisville (5), Utah (9)

Four on the outside: Oklahoma State, Louisville, Southern Cal, Florida State

-BtW

Chaos causes shakeup in latest Ben Ten

As it stands right now, it's Alabama and everyone else. So where does everyone else rank? It's not easy now-a-days because there's a lot of comparing to do. How do you compare a team's loss in November to someone's in October? Or one that was on the road vs. one that was at home? Shouldn't overall "body of work" count as well as the eye test? Yes, the Playoff Committee has a tough job this week, but here's how I see it.

Playoff Teams

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 10-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: USC, Texas A&M, LSU
This week: vs. Chattanooga
No real need to expand on this one. Alabama has proven to be the best team in the land.

2) Ohio State

Ohio State leapt to No. 2 in the newest Ben Ten rankings.
(Photo courtesy Ohio State Athletics)

Last week: No. 6
Record: 9-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Nebraska
This week: at Michigan State
The Buckeyes have won back-to-back games in November by a score of 62-3 after a shaky October that included a loss to Penn State, an OT win at Wisconsin, and a four-point home win against Northwestern. The competition hasn't been anywhere close to tough, but Ohio State is peaking, a good thing with the Michigan schools on tap.

3) Clemson
Last week: No. 2
Record: 9-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn, Troy, Louisville, Florida State
This week: at Wake Forest
Look, I don't like placing Clemson here as much as you don't like seeing a Clemson fan blogger putting Clemson here. But who else deserves to be No. 3? Louisville, the team Clemson beat? Michigan, remain No. 3 after losing a game? The Tigers have been playing with fire all year and were finally burned Saturday. Despite the loss, Clemson put up over 600 yards of offense, and was threatening to ice the game and go up by double-digits before things fell apart. With four Top 25 wins, the Tigers' résumé is still one of the best in the country.

4) Michigan
Last week: No. 3
Record: 9-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Colorado, Penn State, Wisconsin
This week: vs. Indiana
Michigan drops a spot, but remains a Playoff team. I couldn't simply keep Michigan at No. 3 following a loss. The Wolverines were finally tested on the road and put up just 13 points and 200 yards of offense. Jim Harbaugh gets a home game with Indiana to right the ship before heading south to Columbus.

*Note: You could flip-flop Clemson and Michigan and I'd have no problem with that. In the end, Michigan and Ohio State will play next weekend, so we'll know the status of those two teams in due time.

Next in line

5) Louisville
Last week: No. 5
Record: 9-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Florida State
This week: at Houston (Thursday)
The strength of Louisville's wins is holding it back. Currently, the Cardinals have just two wins over teams with a winning record - FSU and Wake Forest. The Deacons led 12-0 at one point and 12-10 going into the fourth quarter before a Louisville barrage. A short week and a road trip will make or break the Cards' season.

6) Washington
Last week: No. 4
Record: 9-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Utah
This week: vs. Arizona State
Many have waited for the Huskies to play a solid team and the Huskies were exposed against a pretty talented USC squad. The home loss hurts, but doesn't completely knock Washington out. The Huskies can still go 12-1, defeat a ranked opponent on the road (Washington State next weekend) and win the Pac-12 championship against a ranked team from the South Division. That'd be enough to put UW back in the Playoff.

7) Wisconsin
Last week: 7
Record: 8-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU, Nebraska
This week: at Purdue
Fortunately for Wisconsin, the Badgers have two really close losses at Michigan (14-7) and vs. Ohio State (30-23 in OT). Unfortunately, that's one more loss than the teams above the Badgers and it only proves they can play with the top teams, but not beat them. Hence why they reside here.

8) Oklahoma
Last Week: 9
Record: 8-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: at West Virginia
Without others losing, this might be as high as Oklahoma can go. The Sooners are rolling through the lower two-thirds of the Big 12. But that grouping is pretty, um, pathetic. Oklahoma gets a chance to earn two quality wins at West Virginia this weekend and against Oklahoma State on Dec. 3. Win and we can at least talk. But talk might be as far as it gets.

9) Utah
Last week: 10
Record: 8-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: USC
This week: vs. Oregon
It appears Utah will head into its final game at Colorado with the Pac-12 South title on the line. The Utes hold the tiebreaker over USC in the division already. First, they must entertain Oregon. The Ducks are officially bowl ineligible and Utah is a 13-point home favorite. Lots to look forward to in the next two weeks in the Pac-12 South.

10) Penn State
Last week: NR
Record: 8-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: Ohio State
This week: at Rutgers
The Nittany Lions get the nod here simply for two reasons: 1) They have a win over Ohio State and 2) They sort of control their destiny in the Big Ten East. If Penn State wins out over Rutgers (2-8) and Michigan State (3-7) AND Ohio State beats Michigan, PSU will go to Indianapolis.


Dropped out: Auburn (8)

Four on the outside: Western Michigan, West Virginia, Colorado, Oklahoma State

-BtW

No change at the top of the Ben Ten rankings

A little more clarity for the top teams as Texas A&M went down this week. The Committee had them at No. 4, but BENched was slightly wiser and had them at seventh. So the Aggies fall out of the Ben Ten this week, as does Florida. The Top 4 remain intact, but there could certainly be some shakeups in the next few weeks. Three of the Top 4 teams face ranked rivals on the final weekend of the season. Until then, they can't get caught looking ahead.

Playoff Teams

Freshman QB Jalen Hurts was good enough in leading Bama
to a win at LSU Saturday night.
(Photo courtesy USA Today Sports)

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Texas A&M, LSU
This week: vs. Mississippi State
Alabama suffocated LSU, beating the Tigers in Baton Rouge, 10-0. Bama heads home for its final three games, none bigger than the Iron Bowl on Nov. 26. You can rest assured the Crimson Tide won't overlook a Mississippi State team which just defeated Texas A&M.

2) Clemson
Last week: No. 2
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn, Louisville, Florida State
This week: vs. Pitt
Clemson put together its best performance against Syracuse, beating the Orange, 54-0. Deshaun Watson left late in the second quarter with a bruised shoulder, but all indications are he will be fine for the stretch run. The Tigers host Pitt this weekend. The Panthers are one of the worst passing defenses in the nation, so Watson should get a good chance to test his shoulder out plenty.

3) Michigan
Last week: No. 3
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Colorado, Penn State, Wisconsin
This week: at Iowa
Like Clemson, Michigan mauled Maryland, 59-3. Here's the thing about Michigan, and I've said it numerous times, the Wolverines have been dominant. But out of their nine games, only one has been outside the state of Michigan. That game was at Rutgers, a 78-0 demolition. Big Blue has a chance to gain some style points with two road games coming up, starting this weekend at Iowa, then the closer at Ohio State.

4) Washington
Last week: No. 4
Record: 9-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Utah
This week: vs. USC
 I could argue that Washington has done more to impress me than Michigan has, but the Huskies remain fourth for now. UW won convincingly at Cal, 66-27. Washington now has four road wins, double what Michigan has and against better competition. Two big tests face the Huskies - this weekend with College GameDay in Seattle vs. USC and in three weeks at Washington State.

Next in line

5) Louisville
Last week: No. 5
Record: 8-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Florida State
This week: vs. Wake Forest
Louisville did to Boston College what you'd expect, and will probably do the same to the rest of its opponents. The Cardinals know they need as many style points to remain in the Playoff hunt and need a few others to lose along the way. The better they look, the harder it will be to keep them out.

6) Ohio State
Last week: No. 6
Record: 8-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Nebraska
This week: at Maryland
Ohio State blasted a beat up Huskers squad, which will look great in the eyes of the Committee. It adds another data point for a ranked win and keeps the Buckeyes in line for the big showdown with Michigan. The trip to College Park shouldn't be too tall a task, considering what the Wolverines just did to the Terps.

7) Wisconsin
Last week: 8
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU, Nebraska
This week: vs. Illinois
Wisconsin knocked off a tough Northwestern team in a lackluster game. The Badgers control the Big Ten West now thanks to Nebraska's loss. This team could give fits to either Ohio State or Michigan in the Big Ten title game, as it already has played both close this season.

8) Auburn
Last week: 10
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU
This week: at Georgia
Auburn struggled at times with Vanderbilt, but held off the Commodores at home. The Tigers are one SEC win away from setting up the tussle in Tuscaloosa. They just have to get by rival Georgia "Between the Hedges" first.

9) Oklahoma
Last Week: NR
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: vs. Baylor
The Sooners fell off the wagon early with losses to Houston and Ohio State. I'm not convinced this is a top 10 team entirely because their latest wins have come against the bottom two-thirds of the Big 12. The final three games will prove where OU stands: vs. Baylor, at West Virginia, vs. Oklahoma State.

10) Utah
Last week: NR
Record: 7-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: at Arizona State (Thursday)
The Utes stumbled two weeks ago in a close loss to Washington, but that's been their only blemish in the past four games. Utah is the only team to slow down Washington, holding the Huskies to 24 offensive points while they average over 48 per game. Wins in their final three games puts the Utes in the Pac-12 championship game.

Dropped out: Texas A&M (7), Florida (9)

Four on the outside: Western Michigan, West Virginia, Virginia Tech, Texas A&M

-BtW

Movement in the bottom half of new Ben Ten

Four undefeated teams lost over the weekend, dropping the total from nine to five. We've reached November which means the College Football Playoff Committee will release its initial ranking Tuesday. Visit this blog afterward as BENched will have a Rapid Reaction to the release. Until then, here's my Top 10.

Playoff Teams

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Texas A&M
This week: at LSU
The Tide had a bye week to get ready for the big one in Baton Rouge. Alabama is playing better than anyone in the country, but they are not unbeatable. LSU gets a crack at the Tide this weekend.

2) Clemson

Deshaun Watson has Clemson on track for another Playoff berth.
(Photo courtesy USA Today Sports)

Last week: No. 3
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn, Louisville, Florida State
This week: vs. Syracuse
There is not a résumé out there better than Clemson's. The Tigers are the only team with three wins against Top 20 foes, two of them on the road. The combined record of the FBS teams Clemson has faced is 37-18 and all 11 FBS teams on the schedule are currently .500 or better.

3) Michigan
Last week: No. 2
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Colorado, Penn State, Wisconsin
This week: vs. Maryland
While Clemson has two wins on the road against Top 20 teams, Michigan has just two road wins period. And they are against Rutgers and Michigan State, both of which are 2-6. The drop this week is a matter of wanting to see Michigan against better competition. That may only come when the Wolverines travel to Columbus.

4) Washington
Last week: No. 4
Record: 8-0
Wins over currently ranked teams: Utah
This week: at Cal
Big win for the Huskies on the road against Utah, but that remains the lone good win on Washington's schedule. The rest of UW's schedule will let us know if this team is worthy of a Playoff spot. Washington travels to Cal, hosts USC and Arizona State, then goes to Washington State for the Apple Cup.

Next in line

5) Louisville
Last week: No. 5
Record: 7-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Florida State
This week: at Boston College
Virginia gave the Cards all they could handle. Three of the last four games have seen Louisville struggle (vs. Duke and at UVA) or lose (at Clemson). The sizzle from September is slowly fading. How will Louisville handle the snoozefest in Chestnut Hill this weekend?

6) Ohio State
Last week: No. 8
Record: 7-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Oklahoma, Wisconsin
This week: vs. Nebraska
Like Louisville, Ohio State hasn't had a very good last few weekends. They escaped Wisconsin with a big overtime win, but then fell at Penn State and almost slipped up at home against Northwestern. Nebraska is next and the Huskers just went toe-to-toe with the Badgers.

7) Texas A&M
Last week: No. 10
Record: 7-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: Auburn
This week: at Mississippi State
The Aggies beat the other Aggies - New Mexico State, that is. Texas A&M takes on the state of Mississippi in its next two games. Any slip up there would be a killer to A&M's outside chance of reaching the Playoff.

At this point, I should remind you that I am putting what I perceive as the best teams in the ranking. 

8) Wisconsin
Last week: NR
Record: 6-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU, Nebraska
This week: at Northwestern
Take Wisconsin, for example. The Badgers have two seven-point losses to Michigan and Ohio State. Along with wins over LSU and Nebraska (and Iowa), Wisconsin might be the best two-loss team in the country. What that really means in the grand scheme of things ain't much, though.

9) Florida
Last week: NR
Record: 6-1
Wins over currently ranked teams: None
This week: at Arkansas
Florida is in control of the SEC East, which also ain't saying much. But the Gators have to travel to Arkansas and now LSU to close out conference play. A trip to FSU also looms, so Florida could very well end up with an 8-4 record.

10) Auburn
Last week: NR
Record: 6-2
Wins over currently ranked teams: LSU
This week: vs. Vanderbilt 
Does anyone want to play Auburn right now? The Tigers' two losses did come at home to Clemson and A&M, but they've reeled off five wins in a row to reach bowl eligibility. They've also separated themselves from the middle tier of the SEC West. They should handle Vandy and Georgia, which sets up another big Iron Bowl.

Dropped out: West Virginia (6), Boise State (7), Nebraska (9) 

Four on the outside: Nebraska, Oklahoma, Western Michigan, West Virginia

-BtW

Bama, Michigan atop latest Ben Ten

Alabama is the clear No. 1 heading into a bye week, meaning the Tide will be No. 1 in the Playoff Committee's initial rankings on Nov. 1. With Ohio State's loss to Penn State, there's plenty of change in this week's ranking. Washington enters the top 4 and West Virginia makes a big leap. With a big weekend of top teams on the road coming up, expect more change next week.

Playoff Teams

Alabama has soared past its competition this season.
The Tide take a break before heading to the Bayou in two weeks.
(Photo courtesy AP)

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 8-0
Key win(s): Tennessee, Texas A&M
This week: Bye
Another week, another non-offensive touchdown. Alabama's suffocating defense limited Texas A&M and Trevor Knight. The Tide roll into the bye week with their eye toward LSU Nov. 5.

2) Michigan
Last week: No. 3
Record: 7-0
Key win(s): Colorado, Wisconsin
This week: at Michigan State
Michigan isn't far behind Alabama on the defensive side of the ball. The Wolverines' rivalry with Michigan State lost some luster, but Sparty will be 100% geared up to stop Harbaugh's crew.

3) Clemson
Last week: No. 4
Record: 7-0
Key win(s): Auburn, Louisville
This week: at No. 12 Florida State
Clemson's wins over Auburn, Louisville and even Troy are looking better every week. Auburn is now 5-2 and ranked 15th. Louisville is No. 5 and beats down everybody - except Clemson. And Troy is 6-1. The Tigers are the only team to have beaten two teams currently ranked in the top 15. They need a win in Tallahassee this week to secure their place in the Top 3.

4) Washington
Last week: No. 5
Record: 7-0
Key win(s): Stanford
This week: at No. 17 Utah
Jake Browning might be the surprise of the season. The Huskies' QB has 26 TDs to just two interceptions and is completing nearly 70% of his passes. Oh, and he has Washington well on its way to a Pac-12 championship. In the way is a big trip to Salt Lake City this weekend.

Next in line

5) Louisville
Last week: No. 7
Record: 6-1
Key win(s): Florida State
This week: at Virginia
Just give Lamar Jackson the Heisman Trophy now. He's totaled 34 touchdowns. He's leading the nation's best offense. All that is great and all, but Louisville is just on the outside awaiting someone in the top four to falter.

6) West Virginia
Last Week: No. 10
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Kansas State, TCU
This week: at Oklahoma State
West Virginia is showing the Big 12 exactly what defense is about. The Mountaineers have held Texas Tech and TCU to a total of 27 points the past two weeks combined. This week's game at Oklahoma State will be a true litmus test.

7) Boise State
Last week: No. 9
Record: 7-0
Key win(s): Washington State, Oregon State, BYU
This week: at Wyoming
It wasn't pretty, but Boise State found a way to win against hapless BYU. The Broncos remain the Group of 5's best shot at crashing the Playoff party, but they'll need a bunch of help. A few road tests lie ahead, starting this weekend in Laramie against an upstart Wyoming team led by former North Dakota State coaching legend Craig Bohl.

8) Ohio State
Last week: No. 2
Record: 6-1
Key win(s): Oklahoma, Wisconsin
This week: vs. Northwestern
The Buckeyes left Happy Valley extremely sad. A blocked field goal with 4:27 to go led to Penn State's final touchdown, sending Ohio State on its way to its first loss of the year. Many think the Buckeyes can find themselves right back in the Playoff hunt if they win out. BENched isn't buying that just yet.

9) Nebraska
Last week: No. 8
Record: 7-0
Key win(s): N/A
This week: at No. 11 Wisconsin
Nebraska's only "good" win has turned sour. Oregon? They're 2-5. The Cornhuskers have their shot with back-to-back road games at Wisconsin and Ohio State. Good luck with that. But hey, if they come out 2-0 or even 1-1, that's a big step in the right direction for the program.

10) Texas A&M
Last week: No. 6
Record: 6-1
Key win(s): UCLA, Auburn, Tennessee
This week: vs. New Mexico State
Trevor Knight couldn't repeat what he did in the Sugar Bowl in 2014 when he was with Oklahoma. Honestly, the Aggies held their own against Alabama. No moral victory, of course, but Bama struggled to score (27 offensive points) and A&M had a lead in the third quarter.

Dropped out: None

Four on the outside: Baylor, Wisconsin, Florida State, Florida

Tigers fall in latest Ben Ten

We are now at the point in the season where preseason hype has run out and it's all about the performance. It is certain that at this point, Alabama has passed the eye test as well as the statistical test. After the Tide, there are myriad teams who could rank anywhere from 2-6. We'll continue to dwindle down the unbeaten teams, but for now it remains at 11.

Playoff Teams

Freshman Jalen Hurts has made his way into the Heisman discussion
with big performances like that against Tennessee.
(Photo courtesy USA Today Sports)

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 7-0
Key win(s): USC, Ole Miss, Arkansas, Tennessee
This week: vs. Texas A&M
The Tide looked smooth on Rocky Top and added two more non-offensive TDs for a total of 11 this season. Alabama returns home to take on the Aggies for this week's biggest showdown.

2) Ohio State
Last week: No. 3
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Oklahoma, Wisconsin
This week: at Penn State
It took guts and heart, but the Buckeyes got it done in overtime at Wisconsin. JT Barrett continues to rise in Heisman talk. Ohio State trucks on to Happy Valley next.

3) Michigan
Last week: No. 4
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Colorado, Wisconsin
This week: vs. Illinois
Jim Harbaugh enjoyed his bye week in a way only Jim Harbaugh can. Don't anticipate any upset by Illinois this weekend.

4) Clemson
Last week: No. 2
Record: 7-0
Key win(s): Auburn, Louisville, NC State
This week: Bye
Had it not been for NC State's missed field goal, Clemson would have fallen much further. The Tigers are probably still one of the top four teams in the nation, but they need to prove it over their last five games.

Next in line

5) Washington
Last week: No. 5
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Stanford, Oregon
This week: vs. Oregon State
The Huskies remain put after the bye week. Washington might get caught looking ahead to next week's game at Utah, but Oregon State still won't have enough to trip up UW.

6) Texas A&M
Last week: No. 6
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): UCLA, Auburn, Arkansas, Tennessee
This week: at No. 1 Alabama
If Texas A&M can find a way to slow down Jalen Hurts and Bama's offense, the Aggies will shoot up to No. 1 in the rankings. Winning in Tuscaloosa won't be easy, but at least they had a week off to get ready for it.

7) Louisville
Last week: No. 7
Record: 5-1
Key win(s): Florida State
This week: vs. NC State
Louisville complained about officiating after its loss to Clemson, but benefited greatly from the refs in a close win over Duke. How sorry the Wolfpack feels for itself will determine if the Cards win in blowout fashion or if they face another stiff test.

8) Nebraska
Last week: No. 8
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Oregon
This week: vs. Purdue
With a win at Indiana in the rear-view and Purdue up next, the Huskers can officially look forward to the Wisconsin-Ohio State road trips in two weeks.

9) Boise State
Last week: No. 10 
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Washington State, Oregon State
This week: vs. BYU (Thursday)
Boise State held on to defeat Colorado State 28-23 after leading by 18 late in the game. The win over Washington State (4-2) looks better with every Cougar victory. BYU, fresh off an OT win over the SEC's Mississippi State Bulldogs, visits the Blue for an intriguing Thursday night affair.

10) West Virginia
Last Week: NR
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Kansas State, Texas Tech
This week: vs. TCU
Welcome to the Ben Ten, Mountaineers. Extremely dominant performance by what may be the Big 12's most complete team. WVU has a Big 12 style offense and a legit defense. That gives the Mountaineers a leg up over their Midwestern brethren.

Dropped out: Tennessee (9)

Four on the outside: Baylor, Houston, Wisconsin, Florida State

Shake up in the Ben Ten - Second Edition

A week after releasing my initial 2016 Ben Ten rankings, a few things happened to shake them up. First, Clemson leapt Ohio State for No. 2 - which if this were the playoff really wouldn't matter. Two teams lost allowing two new teams to enter the ranking. And one team lost, but actually moved up! Who was it? Find out with the second week of the Ben Ten.

Playoff Teams

1) Alabama
Last week: No. 1
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): USC, Ole Miss, Arkansas
This week: at No. 9 Tennessee
Alabama continues to roll and continues to score in all phases. The Tide have nine non-offensive touchdowns. Another big road test awaits on Rocky Top.

2) Clemson
Last week: No. 3
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Auburn, Louisville
This week: vs. NC State
Clemson resembled the team that went to the National Championship last season in a 56-10 win at Boston College. The Tigers are the only Power 5 team with three true road wins so far this season.

Clemson soared past BC Friday and now soars up to No. 2 in the Ben Ten.
(Photo courtesy Clemson Football)

3) Ohio State
Last week: No. 2
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Oklahoma
This week: at No. 8 Wisconsin
Perhaps the Buckeyes didn't pay close enough attention to Indiana. The Buckeyes led by seven midway through the third before pulling away late. A trip to Madison looms.

4) Michigan
Last week: No. 4
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Colorado, Wisconsin
This week: Bye
Who leads the nation in scoring offense? That'd be Michigan. The Wolverines are the first to reach 300 points this season and did so with an emphatic 78-0 win at Rutgers. Rest up, Big Blue. And enjoy Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.

Next in line

5) Washington
Last week: No. 6
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): Stanford, Oregon
This week: Bye
After gut-busting Stanford, the Huskies curb-stomped Oregon, 70-21, in Autzen. Ouch. That's a combined 114-27 over the two Pac-12 teams who have won the past seven conference titles.

6) Texas A&M
Last week: No. 9
Record: 6-0
Key win(s): UCLA, Auburn, Arkansas, Tennessee
This week: Bye
Texas A&M survived the late Tennessee rally. The reward? A bye week to prepare for the Aggies' road trip to Tuscaloosa on Oct. 22.

7) Louisville
Last week: No. 7
Record: 4-1
Key win(s): Florida State
This week: vs. Duke (Friday)
Discussion about Louisville this weekend was that the Cards lost during their bye week due to Houston falling to Navy. On the flip side, how good did Louisville look to hang with a Clemson team that is finding its stride?

8) Nebraska
Last week: NR
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Oregon
This week: at Indiana
The Huskers make an appearance here for the first time this season. Nebraska has yet to impress and its best win is against a team that is now 2-4 (Oregon). Nebraska, though, could easily get to 7-0 before back-to-back road trips at Wisconsin and Ohio State, where it could prove its ranking. Or not.

9) Tennessee
Last week: No. 10
Record: 5-1
Key win(s): Virginia Tech, Florida, Georgia
This week: vs. No. 1 Alabama
Yes, the Vols moved up despite a loss. Tough pill to swallow for the Vols, who turned the ball over seven times and fell in overtime on the road at Texas A&M. No time to sulk, though, as the Crimson Tide invade Neyland Stadium.

10) Boise State
Last week: NR
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Washington State, Oregon State
This week: vs. Colorado State
Sure there are a few more unbeaten Power 5 teams who could be ranked here - Baylor or West Virginia - but the Broncos are playing extremely well. Boise State has yet to trail this season and has wins over two Pac-12 opponents.

Dropped out: Houston (5), Miami (8)

Four on the outside: Wisconsin, Baylor, West Virginia, Houston

Ben Ten makes its return

Now that we are over a month into the season, it's time to start taking a look at a ranking of sorts. I'll play CFB Playoff Committee member and give you my Top 10. It's time to unveil the first installment of the 2016 Ben Ten.

Playoff Teams

Alabama right back where it left off the 2015 season. At the top.

1) Alabama
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): USC, Ole Miss
This week: at No. 16 Arkansas
The Crimson Tide passed their only real test to date - winning at Ole Miss. Freshman quarterback Jalen Hurts brings a new element to Alabama's offense. Big month ahead for the Tide.

2) Ohio State
Record: 4-0
Key win(s): Oklahoma
This week: vs. Indiana
Ohio State has looked dominant. The Buckeyes have outscored their opponents 228-37. The demolition of Oklahoma in Norman put the country on notice. This team is nasty.

3) Clemson
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Auburn, Louisville
This week: at Boston College (Friday)
It took playing the nation's best offense for the Tigers to get their offense rolling. Clemson held Louisville well below its season average for points, total yards and yards per play.

4) Michigan
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Colorado, Wisconsin
This week: at Rutgers
No questioning that Michigan is tough. But does it have enough playmakers to hang with Ohio State? We won't know until November. Harbaugh has turned the program around, though.

Next in line

5) Houston
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Oklahoma
This week: at Navy
If Greg Ward Jr. played for a Power 5 school, he'd be getting a lot more Heisman love. Simply, no one wants to mess with the Cougs. Houston gets one more moment to shine when it hosts Louisville in November.

6) Washington
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Stanford
This week: at Oregon
The Huskies put a beating on reigning Pac-12 and Rose Bowl champion Stanford. Washington is fast and athletic. Chris Petersen has the Huskies playing similarly to his Boise State teams - loose and tough.

7) Louisville
Record: 4-1
Key win(s): Florida State
This week: Bye
Lamar Jackson deserves all the praise. He's a freak of an athlete. The Cards showed more in the loss to Clemson than they had in blowout wins earlier. If they can run the table and have a few other things happen, Louisville could be the first non-conference champion to make the Playoff.

8) Miami 
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): None yet
This week: vs. No. 23 Florida State
Mark Richt has brought back a certain swag to The U. The Hurricanes host in-state rival Florida State this weekend and can solidify themselves as the ACC Coastal favorite.

9) Texas A&M
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): UCLA, Auburn, Arkansas
This week: vs. No. 9 Tennessee
For the third straight year, A&M is 5-0. Is the third time the charm? Big matchup in College Station this weekend as the Vols come to town.

10) Tennessee
Record: 5-0
Key win(s): Virginia Tech, Florida, Georgia
This week: at No. 8 Texas A&M
Alright, Vols. Here's your chance to prove the big deficit comeback wins and the lucky breaks are no fluke. Tennessee already has a firm grasp on the SEC East. But how will it fare against the West's best the next two weeks?

The Ben Ten - Eighth Edition

Editor's Note: The Ben Ten is my attempt to put together the Top 10 teams (plus three) as of right now. Each week, I play the role of solo Playoff Committee member and submit my own ballot.

It was status quo for the Top 4 after a closer-than-expected rivalry weekend. Behind that, multiple changes. Championship Weekend is upon us, so let's see how they stack up at the top before the final rankings are released next week.

Dabo Swinney and the Clemson Tigers are locked in to the top spot again.
(Photo courtesy TigerNet.com)

1) Clemson (12-0)

Previously: 1
Clemson closed out the regular season with a second consecutive win over in-state rival South Carolina. Deshaun Watson was healthy all year and because of that, the Tigers are 12-0 for the first time since 1981. Clemson faces surging North Carolina in the ACC Championship Game Saturday night in Charlotte.

2) Iowa (12-0)

Previously: 2
The Hawkeyes are the only other unbeaten team in the FBS, having secured their 12th win with a 28-20 victory at Nebraska. Iowa has quality wins on its schedule, but not a signature one. That could come against Michigan State in the Big Ten title game this weekend in Indianapolis.

3) Oklahoma (11-1)

Previously: 3
Baker Mayfield has the Sooners offense rolling. Behind the ground attack of Samaje Perine and Joe Mixon, Oklahoma has reeled off seven impressive wins in a row, the latter three coming against ranked teams Baylor, TCU and Oklahoma State - two of which were on the road. Oklahoma is the outright Big 12 champion and awaits the final CFB Playoff Poll to find out its fate.

4) Alabama (11-1)

Previously: 4
Alabama survived its trip to the Plains for the Iron Bowl. The Tide have a wrecking ball at running back in Derrick Henry and he gashed Auburn's defense to the tune of 271 yards on 46 carries. Now, Alabama faces Florida for the SEC championship in Atlanta. The Gators are coming off a 27-2 defeat at home at the hands of Florida State. 

Playoff projection: Clemson vs. Alabama in the Capital One Orange Bowl;  Iowa vs. Oklahoma in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic
*NOTE: The CFB Playoff Committee factors in many variables and does its best to send the No. 1 overall seed to its closest destination. Clemson is geographically closer to Miami, Fla., than to Arlington, Texas.

5) Michigan State (11-1)
Previously: 7
The Spartans emphatically defeated Penn State, 55-16, to clinch the Big Ten East Division and a matchup with Iowa in Indy. Connor Cook looked healthy over the weekend and that gives MSU a big advantage in the B1G Championship. Michigan State has wins over Oregon, Michigan and Ohio State, and would solidify its place in the Top 4 by knocking off currently undefeated Iowa.

6) North Carolina (11-1)
Previously: 8
Outside of Clemson and Iowa, there's only one team with 10-plus wins in a row ... that'd be North Carolina, which has 11 straight wins. The Tar Heels went up 35-7 in the first quarter over rival NC State on their way to a 45-34 win. UNC finished conference play 8-0 and set up one of the most intriguing championship games of the weekend against No. 1 Clemson. Can the Heels reach the Playoff with a win?

7) Ohio State (11-1)

Previously: 10

After looking offensively challenged against Michigan State, the Buckeyes bounced back and looked most dominant at Michigan in a 42-13 victory. The only question with this team is, where was that all year? Had the Buckeyes been that impressive, there'd be no questioning their ranking - and they might not have fallen to Michigan State. What could have been...

8) Stanford (10-2)
Previously: NR
Kevin Hogan and the Cardinal went blow-for-blow with Notre Dame and got in the last punch to knock off the Irish, 38-36. The win boosted Stanford's chances to reach the Playoff, should there be chaos at the top. In the Pac-12 Championship, Stanford will face four-loss USC, a team it beat way back in September, 41-31.

9) Florida State (10-2)
Previously: NR
Florida State's Dalvin Cook might be the most underrated running back in college. Cook carried the ball 26 times for 183 yards and two scores in helping FSU defeat the Gators in front of the largest crowd ever at The Swamp, 27-2. The Noles await the final poll for their destination - likely a NY6 Bowl.

10) Notre Dame (10-2)

Previously: 5

The Irish claim to fame right now? Two road losses to Top 10 teams by two points each. Notre Dame had its six-game winning streak snapped with a heart-breaking loss at Stanford and now has lost by two points to the Cardinal and Clemson. The problem is, other than a home win against USC, that's about all ND has to crow about. Still, the Irish are in a good position and will probably end up in the Fiesta Bowl

Next three up:

TCU (10-2)
In the cold and driving rain, TCU found a way in double OT to take down Baylor and come away 1-2 in its big November games. The Horned Frogs positioned themselves to grab a top-tier bowl game, but losing star receiver Josh Doctson (for the season) and quarterback Trevone Boykin (missed 1.5 games) ended championship hopes for Gary Patterson's squad.

Baylor (9-2)
Like TCU, the Bears went 1-2 during their three-game swoon against the Big 12's best. And like TCU, it was injuries that did Baylor wrong. Quarterback Seth Russell was sorely missed in losses to OU and TCU. Baylor still has one game to play, a home game against Texas, to try to reach double-digit wins for the fourth time in the last five seasons. It appears the Bears would be headed to the Sugar Bowl, but that is not certain.
 
Oregon (9-3)
The Ducks have to be wondering what this season could've been if Vernon Adams Jr. stayed healthy. Oregon has won six straight since his return to the lineup and the offense looks lethal, almost like when Heisman winner Marcus Mariota led the Ducks. Oregon could land in the Alamo Bowl against one of the Big 12 powers.

Dropped out:
Baylor (6) and Oklahoma State (9)

-BtW

The Ben Ten - Seventh Edition

The Clemson Tigers are one win away from capping
their first undefeated regular season since 1981.
(Photo courtesy The Greenville News)

Editor's Note: The Ben Ten is my attempt to put together the Top 10 teams (plus three) as of right now. Each week, I play the role of solo Playoff Committee member and submit my own ballot.

Two of my Top 4 teams fell this past week - Ohio State and Oklahoma State. Thus, there is shakeup at the top. Clemson continues to hold onto the top spot, but the rest of the Top 4 looks much different than a week ago. Without further ado...

1) Clemson (11-0)

Previously: 1
As mentioned, the Tigers hold onto the No. 1 spot in the Ben Ten. Clemson has been the most complete team all season, hasn't lost, has offensive and defensive balance, and has a Heisman hopeful quarterback. A tricky two weeks are on tap with a road trip to in-state rival South Carolina then the ACC Championship Game in Charlotte against North Carolina. It's simple for the Tigers: Win and they're in.

2) Iowa (11-0)

Previously: 4
The only other unbeaten remaining in major college football is the Iowa Hawkeyes. The schedule has been lacking, as Iowa missed out on the top four teams from the Big Ten East division. But, the Hawkeyes keep winning and if they can get past rival Nebraska and upset the East winner (TBD), they will be in the Playoff.

3) Oklahoma (10-1)

Previously: 6
No one has looked better since mid-October than the Sooners. Baker Mayfield is providing his magical playmaking ability and OU has knocked off its toughest tests. The blemish on the Sooners' record is fading with each big win. TCU gave Oklahoma a scare when Mayfield missed the second half with a head injury, but OU found a way to win. Oklahoma can win the Big 12 with a win in Stillwater against the Cowboys. Expect Bedlam.

4) Alabama (10-1)

Previously: 7
OK, so Alabama passes the so-called eye test. However, the résumé is taking a hit. Alabama has one win over a team in the current AP Top 25. That'd be No. 23 Mississippi State. The Tide have wins over quality teams with three and four losses, but let's not forget the struggles at home with Tennessee and Arkansas. I'm still not a believer that this Alabama team doesn't have any holes. The Iron Bowl is up next and Auburn would love nothing more than to spoil Bama's season.

Playoff projection: Clemson vs. Alabama in the Capital One Orange Bowl;  Iowa vs. Oklahoma in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic
*NOTE: The CFB Playoff Committee factors in many variables and does its best to send the No. 1 overall seed to its closest destination. Clemson is geographically closer to Miami, Fla., than to Arlington, Texas.

5) Notre Dame (10-1)

Previously: 5
The Irish are slipping in my view, simply because they haven't been dominant. Notre Dame held off a bad BC team for a three-point win. Notre Dame has one last chance to impress with a trip to Stanford. A win caps an 11-1 season and could propel Notre Dame into the Playoff. Lot of factors at play here.

6) Baylor (9-1)

Previously: 9

Great bounce back win by Baylor to go on the road and knock off Oklahoma State. Even better the Bears were able to do a lot of the damage with their third-string quarterback. Baylor is still in the Big 12 hunt, but now needs to win out against TCU and Texas, and have Oklahoma State take down Oklahoma. Even then, that may not be enough to get the Bears into the Playoff.

7) Michigan State (10-1)
Previously: NR
Huge win by Sparty at Ohio State. When Connor Cook was announced out for the game during pregame, it seemed all hope was lost. But Michigan State played a solid game on both sides and is now in control of the Big Ten East. A win over Penn State sets up a huge chance for MSU to make a case for the Top 4.

8) North Carolina (10-1)
Previously: 10
It wasn't pretty this time, but North Carolina overcame adversity and the emotions of Lane Stadium to defeat Virginia Tech in Frank Beamer's final home game. The Hokies gave the Heels their best shot. UNC absorbed the punches and came out with an overtime win to clinch a spot in the ACC title game. A trip to in-state rival NC State is next, followed by a surprisingly good matchup with Clemson.

9) Oklahoma State (10-1)
Previously: 3
The early deficits finally caught up with Oklahoma State. Although OSU spotted Baylor 14 points and came right back to tie the game, it was clear the Bears were not going to lie down in Stillwater. A win over OU in Bedlam could ease the sting of that loss, but it would leave the Pokes asking "what if?"

10) Ohio State (10-1)

Previously: 2

So this is the real Ohio State, huh? Or is it? The Buckeyes fell in their only game against a ranked opponent, at home and to a backup QB no less. Ohio State now looks like it could finish third in its division. The battle in the Big House this week against Michigan is going to tell us what we need to know about the Buckeyes.

Next three up:

Michigan (9-2)
Michigan did what it needed to do against Penn State. That was win. Unfortunately, the Buckeyes didn't do their hated rival any favors. OSU's loss means Michigan State controls its destiny in the division, not Michigan. The Wolverines have the perfect opportunity to knock off Ohio State and make a good case for a New Year's Six Bowl.

Florida (10-1)
In the last three weeks, Florida has defeated Vanderbilt 9-7 and been taken to overtime by two-win Florida Atlantic. Not exactly what Gator Nation had in mind for picking up Ws before the big, bad Noles come to The Swamp. Florida's offense is bad and it's a good thing it has a stout defense. We'll see how far that carries them when Dalvin Cook is running the ball this week.

Stanford (9-2)
The Cardinal secured their spot in the Pac-12 title game and now have two giant matchups in the next two weeks. I don't believe Stanford has a shot at the Playoff, but it can play spoiler against Notre Dame this weekend. The Irish travel to Palo Alto for the regular season finale. After that, Stanford will face the winner of UCLA-USC for the Pac-12 Championship.

Dropped out:
Florida (8)

-BtW

The Ben Ten - Sixth Edition

Deshaun Watson helped Clemson to a school-record
sixth straight 500-yard offensive performance.
(Photo courtesy AP)

Editor's Note: The Ben Ten is my attempt to put together the Top 10 teams (plus three) as of right now. Each week, I play the role of solo Playoff Committee member and submit my own ballot.

The Playoff field is gaining clarity, as there are now just four undefeated Power 5 conference teams remaining. Two of them reside in the Big Ten, meaning the season will conclude with a maximum of three. Now that the Pac-12 seems to be eliminated, the other four conferences plus Notre Dame are solidly in the debate. Two regular season weeks plus championship weekend are all that remains. Let the fun begin.

1) Clemson (10-0)

Previously: 1
Deshaun Watson is the real deal - Part 3. Another ho-hum performance from the sophomore signal caller. Watson racked up 465 yards of offense in leading Clemson to a 37-27 win over Syracuse. Clemson is now 10-0 for just the third time in school history.

2) Ohio State (10-0)

Previously: 2

As expected, the Buckeyes slowly but surely dominated Illinois. Ohio State and JT Barrett looked rusty early, but walked away from Champaign with a 25-point win. Now comes to toughest part of OSU's schedule - home vs. Michigan State, at Michigan, and a potential Big Ten Championship Game appearance.

3) Oklahoma State (10-0)
Previously: 4
Oklahoma State survived Ames, Iowa, this time around, scoring a 35-31 win after trailing by 17 early on. Iowa State led 31-21 in the fourth quarter, but JW Walsh led the comeback. The Cowboys are the Big 12's last unbeaten team and face Baylor and Oklahoma to close out the season, both in the house that Boone built.

4) Iowa (10-0)

Previously: 6
Iowa has scored 31 points or more in four straight games, including the Hawkeyes' 40-35 win over Minnesota Saturday. Kirk Ferentz and Co. should move to 11-0 with Purdue coming to Kinnick Stadium. But looming large is a date with Nebraska among a sea of red.

Playoff projection: Clemson vs. Iowa in the Capital One Orange Bowl; Ohio State vs. Oklahoma State in the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic
*NOTE: The CFB Playoff Committee factors in many variables and does its best to send the No. 1 overall seed to its closest destination. Clemson is geographically closer to Miami, Fla., than to Arlington, Texas.

5) Notre Dame (9-1)

Previously: 5
The experts will tell you Notre Dame's résumé took a hit when Stanford fell to Oregon and Temple lost to South Florida. First off, Notre Dame and Stanford haven't met yet, so that shouldn't have any bearing for the Playoff Committee ... yet. Secondly, Notre Dame still owns the best loss of any one-loss team. The Irish "host" Boston College at Fenway Park this week before traveling to Palo Alto.

6) Oklahoma (9-1)

Previously: NR

Biggest move of the week is Oklahoma, who scored one of the bigger wins of the season at Baylor. The Bears were previously unbeaten, had never lost at McLane Stadium, and were the favorite in the Big 12 this season. Oklahoma and Baker Mayfield keep distancing themselves from the Texas loss. Two more wins against TCU and at Oklahoma State to close the season would be a strong argument for the Top 4.

7) Alabama (9-1)

Previously: 8
Another team with a big win on the weekend was Alabama. The Tide rolled into Starkville and proceeded to keep rolling over Mississippi State, 31-6. Although, the Bulldogs won several key statistics. It will be hard to keep a one-loss SEC champion out of the Playoff, no doubt, but Alabama's loss at home to three-loss Ole Miss still doesn't sit well with me.

8) Florida (9-1)
Previously: 9
The Gators wrapped up conference play with a 24-14 win at South Carolina, sending the Gamecocks to non-bowl eligible status. Florida gets an easy week before hosting Florida State, then heading to Atlanta for the SEC title game. Can the Gators reel off a couple big wins over the Noles and presumably Alabama? If so, Jim McElwain will have Florida playoff bound in his first season in Gainesville.

9) Baylor (8-1)

Previously: 3
Simply put, Baylor got beat by a much better Sooner team, which felt like it owed the Bears one after being dominated the last two years. Jarrett Stidham got banged up in the loss and the road doesn't get any easier. In fact, it leads to Stillwater to face Oklahoma State this weekend, then to Ft. Worth to tackle TCU.

10) North Carolina (9-1)
Previously: NR
Marquise Williams and the North Carolina Tar Heels have been video game good in their last two wins. UNC has scored 125 points in destroying Duke and Miami. The Heels can wrap up the ACC Coastal Division title this week with a win, but it won't be as easy as the last two. North Carolina hits the road for the final two games. Up first is at Virginia Tech, where the Hokies will be sending off Frank Beamer in his final game at Lane Stadium. The following week, it's off to face in-state rival NC State.

Next three up:

TCU (9-1)
Trevone Boykin went down with an ankle injury and his status is uncertain going forward. That leaves TCU with two question marks now, as Boykin joins leading receiver Josh Doctson on the bench with injuries. If the Horned Frogs can somehow escape Norman with a win this weekend, they'll be right back in the thick of things, but will need some help.

Michigan State (9-1)
Sparty bounced back with a 24-7 win over Maryland, but lost quarterback Connor Cook in the process. Or so it seems. Cook's status will be kept close to the vest this week as Michigan State prepares for a trip to the Horseshoe. Lose there, and the Buckeyes clinch the Big Ten East Division. Win and who knows what could happen.

Michigan (8-2)
We've reached the land of two-loss teams (sorry, Houston). There are several two-loss teams now - Stanford and Utah as well. It's hard not to put Utah here with the head-to-head advantage over the Wolverines. But Michigan gets the nod after surviving a double overtime win at Indiana. Utah can't say the same, as it lost in two OTs at Arizona. Michigan now hopes for a Buckeye win over Michigan State, and then hopes to upset Ohio State at the Big House to win the division. To get there, though, Big Blue has to knock off Penn State at Beaver Stadium first.

Dropped out:
Stanford (7) and LSU (10)

-BtW