The final CFP (College Football Playoff) spot is in a heated battle between two formidable teams - Alabama football and SMU. These two programs have shown their mettle on the field and are now vying for that coveted playoff berth.

The Tight Race for the CFP Finale

Alabama's Resumé - A Mix of Wins and Losses

Alabama, a team with a rich football history, has had its share of both great wins and some not-so-great losses. They stand at 3 - 1 against teams ranked in the CFP top 25, having defeated Georgia, South Carolina, and Missouri. However, they also suffered defeats to Vanderbilt and Oklahoma, both teams that finished with a 6 - 6 record. These losses have raised questions about their playoff credentials. But their overall performance and wins against top-ranked teams cannot be ignored. Alabama's ability to compete at a high level is evident, and they are determined to make a strong case for a playoff spot.The Crimson Tide's journey through the season has been a rollercoaster ride. They have faced tough opponents and have shown their resilience in coming back from losses. Their coaching staff has worked tirelessly to improve the team's performance, and the players have responded with determination. Alabama's fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the playoff field, hoping that their team will make it in.

SMU's Close Calls - Losing by a Thread

SMU, on the other hand, lost the ACC Championship Game by a last-second field goal. This narrow defeat has left many wondering if they should be punished for losing an extra game. The Mustangs are 0 - 2 against top 25 teams, with both losses occurring by just three points. Their record shows that they have been in close games and have the ability to compete with the best.Despite the losses, SMU has had a strong season overall. Their wins against other quality teams have demonstrated their potential. The Mustangs are hungry for a playoff berth and believe that they deserve a chance to compete at the highest level. Their fans are passionate and are rallying behind the team, hoping that they can make a late push for the playoff.

The Projections and Predictions

The 12 - team playoff field will be announced at 11 a.m. CT on Sunday on ESPN, and there is a lot of speculation and analysis surrounding the final spot. Different media outlets have their own projections and predictions.CBS still has Alabama making the CFP, even after the ACC title game. Jerry Palm projects that Alabama will face the No. 6 seed Penn State in State College, Pennsylvania before taking on the No. 3 seed Boise State with a victory. This shows the confidence that CBS has in Alabama's ability to make it to the playoff.Bleacher Report's David Kenyon projects Alabama to face Illinois in the Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31 in Orlando. This prediction gives Alabama another opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially earn a playoff berth.Yahoo Sports' Nick Bromberg bumped the Crimson Tide from the field, placing SMU at the No. 12 spot and facing the No. 5 seed Texas. This decision has sparked a lot of debate among fans and experts alike.ESPN's Kyle Bonagura was the lone ESPN writer of a panel of 13 writers who predicted Alabama would be the No. 11 team, with Clemson at No. 12. However, everyone else picked SMU instead for the final playoff spot. This shows the close race between the two teams and the uncertainty surrounding the final spot.FOX Sports' Joel Klatt predicted that Alabama will earn the No. 12 seed in the CFP and face the No. 5 seed Notre Dame in the first round. This prediction adds to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the playoff.In conclusion, the battle for the final CFP spot is intense. Alabama and SMU have both shown their strengths and weaknesses, and it will be a tough decision for the selection committee. Fans of both teams are eagerly awaiting the announcement and hoping that their team will make it to the playoff. Only time will tell which team will emerge victorious and earn that precious spot in the CFP.