"I think right now you look at Oregon, Ohio State and Penn State. I think those three right now. Then I think Indiana, depending on Kurtis Rourke and what that situation is, I think those four teams are certainly very likely candidates to be considered for the College Football Playoff.

The status of several key players remains questionable for No. 1 Oregon as it prepares to play No. 21 Illinois Saturday in Autzen Stadium

The Oregon defense won't let up vs. Illinois just because a showdown with Michigan looms on the calendar. Look for the Ducks to subdue the Illini at home in a low-scoring tilt.