Kirk Herbstreit Names Which Big Ten Teams Are College Football Playoff Contenders

The college football season is finally here, and this year marks a major change for the sport with the expansion of the College Football Playoff to 12 teams, compared to the previous four-team playoff format since 2014.

That has led to many people wondering how many teams from each conference will get into the College Football Playoff. On Saturday's edition of "College GameDay," ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit revealed that he believes four teams from the Big Ten have a legitimate chance to make the new format.

Herbstreit believes Michigan, Oregon, Ohio State and potentially Penn State, with improved quarterback play from Drew Allar, could make their first CFP appearance.

"I think they're (Michigan) interesting, Oregon, obviously, Ohio State and I really think Penn State, if Drew Allar can come along and the receivers, they are also a playoff caliber potential team," Herbstreit said.

ESPN's Football Power Index agrees with Herbstreit. The FPI believes these teams have the highest chance of representing the Big Ten in the playoffs. Oregon, Ohio State, and Penn State are all projected to win 10 games this year; however, the defending champion Wolverines are projected to win eight games.

With the start of the season, only time will reveal if those teams can represent the Big Ten in the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff.

Related: Joel Klatt Names College Football Program Most Affected By Old CFP Format