The No. 23 Oregon Ducks appeared dead to rights for making the College Football Playoff after suffering a third loss on the season, falling to the Illinois Fighting Illini on the road. However, after Oregon's win over then-ranked No. 20 Northwestern, the Ducks seem to be back in the postseason conversation. With a matchup against No. 12 Ohio State on Saturday, though, Oregon likely cannot afford another loss in order to reach the CFP.
Placed at No. 23 in the initial rankings released by the CFP Selection Committee, the path forward for the Ducks to have a chance is clear: win out.