What to watch for in this weekend's College Football Playoff first round

The college football playoff begins Friday and among the stars set to shine during the first two rounds are (left to right): Indiana quarterback (and Heisman Trophy winner) Fernando Mendoza, University of Miami wide receiver Malachi Toney, and Texas A&M linebacker Cashius Howell.

An unpredictable and exciting college football season is coming to a close. This weekend's first-round slate is set up for two tight games and two blowouts — but in the playoffs, anything goes.

(Image credit: (From left to right) Michael Reaves/Getty Images; Chris Bernacchi/Diamond Images via Getty Images; Joe Buvid/ISI Photos via Getty Images)