Major College Football Championship Games Impact Playoff Picture

Boise State secured a significant victory in the Mountain West Conference championship game, defeating UNLV 38-21. Quarterback Maddux Madsen, returning from injury, threw three touchdown passes and rushed for another score, helping the Broncos claim their third consecutive conference title.

This win positions Boise State favorably in the playoff picture as they aim for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Meanwhile, No. 25 James Madison clinched the Sun Belt Conference title with a 31-14 win over Troy.

Alonza Barnett III led the Dukes with a crucial touchdown run late in the game, alongside a strong performance from Wayne Knight, who rushed for 212 yards. James Madison's victory bolsters their case for inclusion in the College Football Playoff, particularly if a certain outcome arises in the ACC Championship Game.

The Dukes have now won eleven straight games, showcasing their strength in the season's closing stages. The competitive landscape of college football is underscored by these championship games, as teams like Boise State and James Madison strive for a coveted playoff berth, reflecting the high stakes involved.

Their successes highlight the intense competition among Group of Five teams as they seek recognition and an opportunity at the national level.