Overview of Arizona State's Season and Championship Chances

As the College Football Playoff (CFP) approaches, all eyes are on the underdog Arizona State Sun Devils. Ranked No. 4 and led by star running back Cam Skattebo, who boasts an impressive 1,568 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns this season, ASU aims to create history by becoming one of the most unlikely national champions. Their current momentum is palpable, having clinched six straight victories, including a dominant 45-19 win against Iowa State in the Big 12 Championship Game.

However, the Sun Devils face an uphill battle as they trade a local matchup in Glendale, Arizona's Fiesta Bowl for a challenging game at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta. There, they'll confront either No. 12 Clemson or No. 5 Texas on New Year's Day. The Longhorns, being favored by 11.5 points over Clemson, are looking to secure their spot in the semifinals.

With national championship odds placing Arizona State at +6000—a tie for the longest shot alongside Clemson—can they pull off an upset that would be talked about for years? Betters and fans are eager to see if ASU can carry this momentum into the later rounds of the CFP.

Expert Predictions: The Teams to Watch

Eric Cohen, known for his successful picks on the CBS Sports Network’s "Early Edge College Football Picks," has analyzed the playoff bracket and offers score predictions for crucial matchups. This season, Cohen has demonstrated a winning record in college football picks (66-44, 60%), accumulating nearly $2,000 in profits for $100 bettors.

In a notable prediction, Cohen believes No. 6 Penn State will narrowly defeat No. 11 SMU, forecasting a final score of 27-23. Both teams hold a strong 11-2 record, making this showdown in State College a must-watch, especially with freezing temperatures expected to influence gameplay. The Nittany Lions' attack, featuring standout quarterback Drew Allar and tight end Tyler Warren, promises to be a formidable force.

Upsets on the Horizon?

Cohen's bracket includes surprising developments, particularly for higher-seeded teams like Texas, Notre Dame, and Georgia. Will these powerhouses suffer early exits? This could be a season of surprises as many lower-seeded teams, including the likes of Boise State, aim to defy expectations.

Important Matchups and Schedules

The College Football Playoff schedule is packed with thrilling matchups: - **Friday, Dec. 20**: No. 7 Notre Dame vs. No. 10 Indiana (+7.5, 51.5) - **Saturday, Dec. 21**: - Noon ET: No. 6 Penn State vs. No. 11 SMU (+8.5, 54) - 4 p.m. ET: No. 5 Texas vs. No. 12 Clemson (+11.5, 51.5) - 8 p.m. ET: No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 9 Tennessee (+7.5, 47) - **Tuesday, Dec. 31**: No. 3 Boise State vs. TBD (Penn State/SMU) - **Wednesday, Jan. 1**: - 1 p.m. ET: No. 4 Arizona State vs. TBD (Texas/Clemson) - 5 p.m. ET: No. 1 Oregon vs. TBD (Ohio State/Tennessee) - 8:45 p.m. ET: No. 2 Georgia vs. TBD (Notre Dame/Indiana) As we prepare for an exciting postseason, the possibility of historic upsets looms large. Who will rise to the occasion and secure their place in the annals of college football history? Buckle up, as this year's CFP is primed to deliver edge-of-your-seat moments!