An SMU win over Clemson makes it simple for Alabama football to make the College Football Playoff. What about an SMU loss, though?

Essentially the only path that guarantees a playoff berth for Alabama is an SMU win, as College Football Playoff selection committee chair Warde Manuel explained: “Those who are not playing [in conference championship games], we will not adjust those teams.” Manuel told ESPN.

Despite suffering three losses, Alabama is in great shape in the latest College Football Playoff rankings, poised to jump SMU for an at-large spot should the Mustangs slip up against Clemson in the ACC Championship Game.

5-star quarterback Keelon Russell put pen to paper and signed with the Crimson Tide, giving head coach Kalen Deboer his signal caller potentially the crown jewel of the Class of 2025. Russell was joined on Instagram Live by Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams as the quarterback signed his letter of intent.

East Lansing RB Jace Clarizio pulled a late audible and signed with Michigan State football for 2025 class, after he flipped to Alabama a week ago.