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UVA, JMU Shine in College Football Playoffs; All Win Bowls

1/23/2026

47 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The University of Virginia finished the season ranked No. 16 in the final AP Top 25 with an 11-3 record.
James Madison University finished No. 19 with a 12-2 season, becoming the first Sun Belt program to reach the College Football Playoff.
Old Dominion University and the University of Virginia won bowl games, and all three schools finished with at least 10 wins.

History

Historical Context

The College Football Playoff (CFP) system was introduced in 2014, replacing the Bowl Championship Series and marking a significant shift in postseason college football. Ohio State won the inaugural playoff, while teams like Alabama and Virginia achieved notable success. This change has increased competitiveness, particularly among programs in the Sun Belt Conference, influencing recruitment and funding strategies for these universities.

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Story summary

The University of Virginia finished the season ranked No. 16 in the final AP Top 25 with an 11-3 record.
James Madison University finished No. 19 with a 12-2 season, becoming the first Sun Belt program to reach the College Football Playoff.
Old Dominion University and the University of Virginia won bowl games, and all three schools finished with at least 10 wins.

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