Joel Klatt predicts Michigan Wolverines to make the CFP, leaves Texas Tech out

Joel Klatt speaks on a Big Noon Kickoff pregame show.
Joel Klatt speaks on a Big Noon Kickoff pregame show. | Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK

Joel Klatt has released his College Football Playoff predictions, and he did not include the Red Raiders in his forecast. Klatt projects Penn State as the number one seed, Texas as the second seed, Clemson as the third seed, and Ohio State to complete the top four. While these predictions are noteworthy, his choice of Kansas State as the Big 12 champion overlooks the potential of Texas Tech. The Red Raiders, with their strong defense and dynamic offense, are well-positioned to claim the Big 12 title this year, regardless of Klatt's prediction.

Klatt's decision to include Michigan as the 11th seed raises some eyebrows. With a true freshman quarterback leading the Wolverines, their playoff berth seems like a risky bet. A rookie signal-caller could struggle against elite Big Ten competition, while Texas Tech's experienced roster, which includes standout transfer portal additions, offers proven reliability. Klatt's confidence in Michigan over the Red Raiders may come across as a slight to the fans in Lubbock.

Texas Tech's exclusion from Klatt's playoff predictions only fuels the team's determination. With Behren Morton guiding the offense and defensive standout players like David Bailey and Lee Hunter bolstering the line, the Red Raiders are poised for a run at the Big 12 championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff this fall.

Behren
Texas Tech Red Raiders offensive guard Sterling Porcher (79) blocks for quarterback Behren Morton (2). Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images | Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images

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David Lewis
DAVID LEWIS

Dave Lewis served in the United States Army for 25 years. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and is completing his MBA in Executive Leadership. He’s been married to his wife, Andrea, for 20+ years and is a proud father of Carsen and Madisen.