ESPN has it's early predictions out for next years playoffs.  The Buckeyes have the most votes (36 out of 37 "experts" picked them, only some guy named Sam Khan Jr left them out, and had Mich St in).  Buckeyes were followed by TCU (32), USC (23), and Bama (17).

I can see that playing out.  I think TCU and OSU will be the top 2 seeds.  The ACC will be out.  I could see ND making a run this year, because they were very young this year on both sides of the ball, and they have a very manageable schedule on top of that.  If that were to happen, that means the PAC 12 and SEC would be fighting for the last spot.  Interesting.  Can't wait.