Spectacular-Insights as Powerhouse Penn State football is a lock for CFP. Who Lions could face in College Football Playoff

Penn State Football Secures CFP Spot: Potential Opponents in the Playoff

Penn State’s postseason journey kicks off Saturday night in Indianapolis, where they’ll face the undefeated No. 1 Oregon Ducks in the Big Ten Championship.

As the No. 3 Nittany Lions head into the College Football Playoff, they will certainly be well-prepared, regardless of the outcome of Saturday’s game. Whether they win or lose, the Lions (11-1, 8-1 Big Ten) are guaranteed a spot in the 12-team CFP and are almost certain to host a first-round game at Beaver Stadium if needed.

However, if they upset Oregon, they could avoid that scenario. The Big Ten champion, along with the winners of three other conferences, will earn a first-round bye.

The final playoff rankings, seedings, and matchups will be revealed on ESPN’s selection show on Sunday at noon. Here’s a look at who the Lions might face in the playoffs based on their performance in the Big Ten Championship:

Penn State’s Potential Playoff Opponent: If They Beat Oregon
If the Lions defeat Oregon, they would secure a No. 1 or No. 2 seed and earn a first-round bye. They would head straight to the quarterfinals at the Rose Bowl on New Year’s Day. As the top seed, they would face the winner of the No. 8 vs. No. 9 game, which is expected to be Ohio State vs. Tennessee. Since both teams have the weekend off, their current seedings should remain intact. This game would be held in Columbus, Ohio.

Penn State’s Potential Playoff Opponent: If They Lose to Oregon
A loss to Oregon would mean the Lions would play a first-round game on December 20 or 21. Depending on the outcome, they could either remain in their current No. 5 seed or fall to No. 6 or No. 7, potentially behind idle Notre Dame. Regardless of the seed, Penn State is expected to host their opening game at Beaver Stadium.

If they remain at No. 5, they could face the No. 12 seed, with potential opponents like Alabama, Arizona State, or Iowa State. A No. 6 or No. 7 seed would bring similar matchups, including teams like Boise State, SMU, Clemson, or the Big Ten’s Indiana Hoosiers.