Pac-12 path to playoffs, LSU recruiting/reputation benefit

After this big win, I confidently believe LSU will be significantly favored on a neutral field over #4 Bama (screw the Tua <100% narrative). However, for recruiting sake and building our national reputation, it is definitely in LSU's advantage imo if Bama was left out at #5 and we were the reason that they missed the CFP for the first time since its inception. Also, it would be a tremendous recruiting benefit to whip a #4 west coast team and keep these Cali recruits running to us. We've already spanked Texas to help with Big 12/Texas recruiting, and we get them again next season.

For the Pac-12 to make it, I think they are in with a conference championship win from 1 loss Utah or 1 loss Oregon. The media would love the narrative of the first Pac 12 CFP appearance in 3 years, and Oregon's only loss was the final seconds miracle TD in week 1 against top 10 Auburn.

Looking at the remaining schedule, I think the odds are good that both remain 1 loss leading to the conference championship. Then we have a matchup of ~#5 v #7 in the championship- the winner (especially if oregon) will catapult to #4.

Remaining schedule:
Oregon- Arizona (4-5), @Arizona State (5-4), Oregon St (4-5)
Utah- UCLA (4-5), @Arizona (4-5), Colorado (4-6)

If Oregon and Utah can coast through some sub .500 teams, LSU will have the opportunity to get the BEST possible scenario at recruiting and national recognition by having forced Bama out for the first time, dominating the second ever Pac-12 CFP participant, then having Burrow face off his old team in the championship.

This scenario combined with our recent facility upgrades would vault LSU to #1 destination of 5 star recruits from coast to coast. If we stay focused and play to the best of our potential, we have the chance to become THE dynasty of college football.

Edited Pac 12 CFP history