DeBoer's winning pedigree and offensive innovation offer Michigan a chance to rebuild. But can he truly conquer Tuscaloosa's shadow?

Even so, No. 2 Ohio State is the only top-four seed without a title to its name. No. 1 Indiana, No. 3 Georgia and No. 4 Texas Tech all won their respective conferences. That's a testament to how strong the Buckeyes, who will be defending their 2024 national title, were this season.

There isn't a commitment issue at Alabama. There's a results problem -- and Tide coach Kalen DeBoer better figure out how to beat Oklahoma.

Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer has made a strong start in Tuscaloosa.

Beyond the wins and losses, there is a narrative at stake here that's more than just wins and losses. A loss in the College Football Playoff opener can steer conventional wisdom -- right or wrong -- about a team, or in this year's case, whether half the sport even belongs in the format at all.

DeBoer is in his second season with the Crimson Tide after stepping in for the retired Nick Saban and Venables is in his fourth year leading the Sooners following Lincoln Riley's departure. Both had impeccable credentials.

Several coaches have been linked to the Michigan job since it opened, with the likes of Alabama's Kalen DeBoer and Arizona State's Kenny Dillingham being among the more highly rumored candidates for the job.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Dan Wetzel, and Rece Davis analyzed Michigan's coaching search, focusing on Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer and ASU's Kenny Dillingham.