For the next two weeks, that allegiance might grow. Even Vanderbilt fans should support the Big Orange this weekend and next, even if they choose not to wear any Pantone 151 C.
We’re in that unusual portion of the college football schedule where it’s become beneficial to root for your rivals.
Confused? Follow along.
Vanderbilt’s College Football Playoff hopes are pinned to the Commodores finishing 10-2, including a win at Tennessee in the regular-season finale, and convincing the CFP committee they’re worthy of one of the last at-large spots.
That becomes an easier argument to make if Tennessee is 8-3 entering that Nov. 29 rivalry game at Neyland Stadium. So, for the next two weeks, Vandy fans are now Vols fans, as Tennessee plays New Mexico State this weekend and then travels to Florida on Nov. 22.
OK, so maybe not fans but at least silent supporters.
This 12-team playoff makes for strange bedfellows.
Texas needs to pull for Texas A&M these next two weeks. Because, unless the Longhorns win at Georgia this weekend, their playoff hopes are pinned to beating Texas A&M on Black Friday and hoping a 9-3 record is enough.
It’s easier to make that case if the Aggies are 11-0 and ranked within the top three when they head to Austin. So, for the next two weeks in Austin, keep it weird, and Gig ‘em!
The better Georgia Tech plays the next two weeks, the better it would look for Georgia if the Bulldogs beat the Yellow Jackets. So, get the buzz, from Atlanta to Athens for the next two weeks.
BYU’s at-large resume is propped up by a Holy War win against Utah. Embrace that spiritual kinship, Cougars, because BYU would benefit from Utah finishing 10-2.
The longer Southern California avoids a third loss, the longer Notre Dame can claim a quality victory. Can Irish fans bring themselves to say, Fight on?
Now, brace yourselves, because I’m going to suggest something quite bold. Ohio State despises Michigan so much, the Buckeyes can’t bring themselves to say or write “Michigan.” To Ohio State, its rival is either The Team Up North or Xichigan.
So, I ask you, Michigan: Can you stomach Ohio State maintaining its No. 1 ranking and building to an 11-0 record?
The two-loss Wolverines’ playoff hopes hinge on winning out. A statement win against undefeated and top-ranked Ohio State would be impossible for the committee to ignore. Ohio State losing to UCLA this weekend would be the last thing Michigan needs.
Ohio State, Indiana and Texas A&M don’t need any help. Beat everybody, and you aren’t left rooting for your rival.
Blake Toppmeyer is the USA TODAY Network’s senior national college football columnist. Email him at BToppmeyer@gannett.com and follow him on X @btoppmeyer.