CFP Quarterfinal Preview: Bama vs. Indiana, Ole Miss Rematch

The Road to the Semifinals

The 12-team College Football Playoff has delivered on the hype. After an electric first round, we are down to the Elite Eight. The quarterfinals kick off on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, featuring the top four seeds making their debut against battle-tested challengers.

(9) Alabama vs. (1) Indiana (Rose Bowl)

The Matchup: The undefeated Hoosiers (13-0), led by Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza, face the bluest of blue bloods, Alabama. The Narrative: Can Indiana's Cinderella story continue against a Tide team that just erased a 17-point deficit to beat Oklahoma? Key to the Game: Indiana's defense has not faced an athlete like Alabama QB Jalen Milroe. However, Alabama's secondary has been suspect. Expect a shootout in Pasadena. Prediction: Indiana's magic holds for one more week. Hoosiers win 38-35.

(6) Ole Miss vs. (3) Georgia (Sugar Bowl)

The Matchup: An SEC rematch in New Orleans. Georgia won the regular season meeting 43-35, but Ole Miss just decimated Tulane 41-10. The Narrative: Lane Kiffin finally has a defense playing at a championship level. Georgia, rested after the bye, is looking to reassert dominance. Key to the Game: Pressure on Gunner Stockton. The Georgia QB has been efficient, but the Rebels pass rush led by Walter Nolen is peaking. If Ole Miss can force Stockton off his spot, they can pull the upset. Prediction: Georgia's depth wears down the Rebels in the 4th quarter. Bulldogs win 27-20.

(10) Miami vs. (2) Ohio State (Cotton Bowl)

The Matchup: The Hurricanes survived a defensive struggle vs Texas A&M. Now they face the Buckeyes, who are angry after their Big Ten title game loss. The Narrative: Miami carries the "Us Against the World" energy, but Ohio State has the most talented roster in the country. Key to the Game: Cam Ward vs. the Buckeye secondary (No. 1 in the nation). Miami needs Ward to be Superman. Ohio State just needs to play clean football. Prediction: Ohio State wins comfortably, 31-17.

(5) Oregon vs. (4) Texas Tech (Orange Bowl)

The Matchup: High-flying Oregon takes on the Big 12 champs. The Narrative: Oregon looked unstoppable putting up 51 points on James Madison. Texas Tech is the surprise of the season. Key to the Game: Tempo. Both teams want to run 80+ plays. Oregon's depth at receiver is the difference maker here. Prediction: Oregon wins a track meet, 45-38.