In the daunting, thrilling lineup that is Week 1, what if ...
Alabama loses to USC? Whatever. Just win the SEC West. Again.
Notre Dame loses to Texas? It can be overcome -- just ask Oklahoma.
USC loses to Alabama? Join the club. A loss to the defending national champs is just a crack in the windshield, hardly a complete wreck.
Congratulations to college football's Week 1 warriors. You've started the season with a win -- even if you lose.
This is what the College Football Playoff is all about -- strength of schedule -- and the teams that have dared to open the season against a marquee opponent have already earned credit in the eyes of the selection committee.