A Farewell to Four. CFP 4 Marks the End of an Era (Sports/College Football)

As the curtain falls on the tenth season of the College Football Playoff (CFP), it does so with a mix of nostalgia and anticipation. This year's playoff marks the final appearance of the traditional four-team format, as the CFP expands to a twelve-team playoff next season. As we bid farewell to the original playoff bracket, let's take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of the teams that have earned their spot in this historic final four. Year ten of the CFP has been nothing short of extraordinary, reminding fans of why they fell in love with college football in the first place. From Michigan's resilience amidst coaching challenges to Georgia's impressive streak, this season has been a rollercoaster of emotions. As we head into the playoff, let's quickly recap the intriguing storylines that have defined this special season.

Michigan's Unyielding Spirit:

Michigan's journey stands out as a testament to perseverance. Playing six games without head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Wolverines have defied the odds by going undefeated. The "Those who come back will be champions" mantra has fueled a team led by players who turned down the NFL draft last year for one more shot at college supremacy. Despite suspensions and controversies, Michigan has remained focused on the ultimate goal.

Georgia's Streak and the Alabama Twist:

Georgia, with a remarkable 29-game winning streak and winner of the last two national titles, faced a stunning setback at the hands of a one-loss SEC champion, Alabama. This loss, coupled with Alabama's earlier defeat to the resurgent Texas Longhorns, sets the stage for a redemption arc in the playoff.

Florida State's ACC Triumph:

In a season of surprises, Florida State emerged as the ACC champion, overcoming challenges with a third-string quarterback. However, despite their conference success, the Seminoles find themselves on the outside looking in, raising questions about conference strength and playoff selection criteria. Could this be the thing that forces Florida State to leave the ACC where they have enjoyed so much success for the profile boost of the SEC?

PAC-12 Drama:

The final year of the PAC-12 witnessed a fierce battle between the Washington Huskies and the Oregon Ducks. Washington's dominance, beating Oregon twice in six weeks, showcased the competitive spirit of the conference in its concluding chapter. With the conference all but dissolved Washington has given the West Coast one more chance at greatness for the "conference of champions"

The Final Four:

As the dust settles, the final four teams emerge: Michigan, Washington, Texas, and Alabama. These teams, each with a compelling case for inclusion, will vie for a chance to etch their names into college football history.

Michigan vs. Alabama:

Alabama, with a season marked by growth, maturity and arguably Coach Nick Saban's best coaching job, faces a resilient Michigan squad that overcame coaching firings and suspensions, controversies and scandals. This clash promises to be a battle of titans as the two winningest football programs in college football collide.

Washington vs. Texas:

Washington, counted out for most of the season, enters the playoff with a Heisman candidate at QB and the nations best receiving corp not to mention a physical underrated defense. Texas, on the other hand, seeks to continue its "Texas is back" resurgence under Coach Sark, capping off their last season in the Big Twelve with a Big Twelve title and playoff appearance.

While the four teams in the playoff have compelling narratives, two notable omissions leave fans questioning the selection process. Florida State, ACC champions with a weakened conference argument, and Georgia, with an impressive win streak but denied a chance to defend their title, find themselves on the sidelines. As the CFP bids adieu to its four-team format, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to a memorable season. Bowl season is upon us, and the playoff looms large, promising fans a wild ride filled with drama, passion, and the indomitable spirit of college football. So, strap in, hold tight, and savor the last moments of the CFP as we know it – the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in college football history