Both Cincinnati and Ohio State are in strong positions for potential College Football Playoff berths following Week 6, with the Bearcats ranked #3 and Buckeyes at #6 in the AP Top 25.

Cincinnati (5-0) achieved their highest-ever AP ranking after dominating Temple 52-3, extending their home winning streak to 23 games. Their resume includes impressive road wins over Indiana and Notre Dame, with their remaining schedule featuring just one ranked opponent (#23 SMU).

Ohio State (5-1) maintained their #6 ranking after a convincing 66-17 victory against Maryland. Despite an early loss to Oregon, the Buckeyes have a challenging but opportunity-rich schedule ahead with three top-10 matchups against Penn State, Michigan State, and Michigan, plus a potential Big Ten Championship game against #2 Iowa.

Path to the Playoff:

• Cincinnati needs to maintain perfection but lacks marquee games remaining
• Ohio State must win out through a tough schedule, as another loss likely eliminates them
• Both teams could make the playoff with perfect remaining records and help from other top teams losing

Key Factors:

• Cincinnati: First Group of 5 team with realistic playoff chances
• Ohio State: Early loss leaves no margin for error
• Schedule strength favors Ohio State for resume building
• Both teams need some chaos among other top-ranked teams

The historic possibility of two Ohio teams making the playoff exists, but requires flawless execution and favorable results elsewhere in college football.

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