playFinebaum isn't buying IU as CFP favorite (0:46)Paul Finebaum explains why Indiana isn't the College Football Playoff favorite despite its win over Ohio State. (0:46)Adam RittenbergDec 8, 2025, 08:05 AM ETCloseCollege football reporter; joined ESPN in 2008. Graduate of Northwestern University. Follow on XEmailPrintOpen Extended ReactionsThe 12-team College Football Playoff is no longer new, but there are some different elements to consider when beginning the intrepid task of predicting every postseason game the day the pairings are announced. For starters, there are more justifiably aggrieved teams at being left out of the 12-team CFP.