The Cincinnati Bearcats made history as the first Group of Five team to reach the College Football Playoff, finishing the 2021 regular season with a perfect 13-0 record and securing the #4 spot in the final rankings.

Key to their success was a signature 24-13 win at Notre Dame - the Irish's only loss of the season - along with an impressive 38-24 victory over Indiana. The Bearcats followed up on their strong 2020 campaign where they finished 6th in the CFP rankings after pushing Georgia to the limit in a close Peach Bowl loss.

The 2021 Bearcats dominated statistically:

• Average margin of victory: 23 points
• 4th nationally in points scored
• 8th nationally in points allowed
• 7th in total defense (yards per game)
• 2nd in passing defense (168 yards/game)

QB Desmond Ridder led the offense with:

• 30 passing touchdowns
• 6 rushing touchdowns
• 66% completion rate
• 245 passing yards per game

To have a chance against #1 Alabama in the Cotton Bowl semifinal, Cincinnati will need to:

• Contain Crimson Tide QB Bryce Young
• Control time of possession
• Limit Alabama's scoring opportunities

The Bearcats earned their historic playoff berth through dominant play and taking care of business when it mattered most, even if against a weaker schedule than Power Five teams. Their head-to-head win over fellow playoff contender Notre Dame proved decisive in securing the final playoff spot.

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