It took only one week for major narratives to fall among college football's elite. Suddenly, LSU proved itself to be a major national contender, and cracks began to appear at Michigan. Oregon also must fight its way back, while Boise State took its place as the top Group of Six contender.
Now, Week 2 brings us another key opportunity to shape the postseason race. The biggest spot is obvious, as No. 1 Ohio State travels to play No. 4 Texas in a marquee matchup. However, matchups involving Texas A&M, Oklahoma and BYU could prove just as important to shaping the national picture.
Remember, Notre Dame and Texas cost themselves postseason trips with early losses last season. Games in September can shape perception. With that in mind, here are six games in Week 2 that could impact the College Football Playoff race.
There's not much to explain about this game. The winner likely becomes the favorite to win the national championship. The loser suddenly faces a difficult path to even make the playoff, with multiple AP top-10 teams remaining.
We even have an example of how important this game will be last season, as losing to the Buckeyes cost the Longhorns a trip to the postseason. With perhaps the two best wide receivers and quarterbacks in college football on the field, this is a heavyweight battle. Since Michigan technically didn't lose to Western Michigan, the Wolverines still have a chance to get back on track.
Unfortunately, they're playing a motivated Oklahoma squad ready to make a national statement. The Sooners cruised through the first part of 2025 until quarterback John Mateer underwent hand surgery. From there, the offense struggled to get back on track.
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