8. BYU Cougars (8-0)

Why they could be here: The Cougars picked up their fourth road win of the season, and while UCF is a five-loss team, the committee will still appreciate the fact that BYU traveled to Orlando and beat the Knights soundly. That was BYU's toughest remaining game, according to ESPN Analytics, and the Cougars avoided the trap. BYU also has a respectable win at SMU, which is a contender for the ACC title, and a 39-9 win against No. 16 Kansas State. The committee would likely view BYU's résumé as slightly better than Iowa State's at this time, as the Cyclones don't have any wins against ranked opponents.

Why they could be higher: BYU's offense is starting to hit its stride, with more than 450 yards Saturday at UCF. The Cougars averaged almost 7 yards per play and won the turnover battle. BYU's defense entered Saturday No. 13 in defensive efficiency.

Need to know: With Iowa State off this week, BYU is leading the Big 12 standings heading into its second bye week of the season before its rivalry game at Utah. BYU and Iowa State don't play each other during the regular season but could square off in the Big 12 title game.

Toughest remaining game: Nov. 23 at Arizona State