What happened: The SEC remains the lone FBS conference above .500 in non-conference matchups against Power 4 competition, winning 10 of 12 games. Conferences outside the Power 4 have combined for a 3-74 mark, with the Sun Belt, Pac-12, and Conference USA remaining winless.
Why it matters: Non-conference performance plays a critical role in strength-of-schedule evaluations by the College Football Playoff selection committee. With peer power conferences absorbing double-digit losses, SEC contenders hold a measurable edge in resume comparisons for at-large postseason berths.
By the numbers: SEC: 10-2 (.833) | Big 12: 6-7 (.462) | ACC: 6-13 (.316) | Big Ten: 4-10 (.286) | Non-Power 4 leagues combined: 3-74 (.039)
What to watch: The College Football Playoff selection committee will weigh these non-conference records as teams finalize their regular-season resumes.