I think this year could prove why the playoff is necessary as we could see four undefeated conference champs in Ohio St., Alabama, Oregon, and Clemson. If that were to happen (I know it is a big if), I think it ends up being Alabama vs. Clemson. Clemson would have beaten Georgia, Florida St., and South Carolina to get there and that would put them ahead of the other two.
It would be awesome to see Alabama lose and have no SEC teams in the NC this year.
A long ways to go, however.