Paul Finebaum Names CFP Contender That's Had 'Disastrous Couple of Weeks'

As Week 8 of the season approaches, several college football teams are beginning to see their chances for the College Football Playoff diminish. One team that seemed like a guaranteed contender just a few weeks ago is the Ole Miss Rebels, whose hopes are now hanging by a thread.

The Rebels entered this season ranked in the top six, carrying high expectations after achieving their first 11-win season in program history last year. They returned the fourth-most starters in the SEC and had the top transfer portal class. However, after seven games, Ole Miss has recorded two losses. A third loss could jeopardize its chances of making the playoffs.

ESPN's Paul Finebaum appeared on "McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning" and stated that Ole Miss' playoff chances are hanging by a thread due to a disastrous couple of weeks.

"They are clearly hanging by a thread," Finebaum said. "I think they've had a really disastrous couple of weeks here. It's more frustrating than normal because of expectations. That's really what everything is based on."

The Rebels began the season with an impressive record of 4-0, with an average score of 55 to 5.5. However, in their last three games, Ole Miss has only won once, with an average score of 23.3 to 17.3. This shows a significant change in both its offensive and defensive performance.

The key advantage for Ole Miss is its schedule. The Rebels only have one ranked opponent remaining this season, and that is the Georgia Bulldogs at home. If Ole Miss can win all its remaining games, it could potentially position itself in the mix for the College Football Playoff for the first time in the program's history.

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