The events of Week 12 have radically altered the College Football Playoff picture, just when it appeared like everything was going as planned.

Let’s start by discussing the modifications to the playoff field.A fresh prediction has been made in response to Michigan’s difficulty defeating Maryland and inquiries regarding the effect of Jim Harbaugh’s absence.

The Wolverines are being pushed back by Ohio State as they advance across the field. It’s true that the Buckeyes must prevail this Saturday in the Big House, but things feel more likely now than they did seven days ago.

The second significant development is the injury to Florida State quarterback Jordan Travis, who will miss the entire season due to his critical play for the Seminoles. Tate Rodemaker could be useful as a substitute against North Alabama.

When Florida State can compete in the playoffs for the first time since 2014, it will depend on how he performs this week at Florida and then against Louisville in the ACC title game.

Winning those two games should be sufficient for the committee to take action because it is improbable that the Seminoles would be passed over in favor of an at-large team after one loss, but a spectacular victory would allay any worries held by those making the decision.

There appears to be more clarity a little lower in the New Year’s Six race. Penn State’s position above Mississippi in the most recent report and Missouri’s close victory over Florida offer both teams an advantage over at-large places. Oklahoma and the Rebels will be hoping for upsets that might present opportunities.

Note: Not every conference will use all of its bowl allotment. Asterisks indicate a substitute selection. Should there be insufficient six-win teams to occupy all the available spots, James Madison and Jacksonville State would be qualified for the bowl.

Given that there are only 24 teams that can qualify and there are only 15 spots left, that seems likely.