The thrilling conclusion of college football’s regular season unfolded with familiar rivalries leading to decisive outcomes, paving the way for the upcoming conference championship games and the latest AP Top 25 rankings.

Virginia, ranked No. 17, clinched a spot in the ACC championship after defeating Virginia Tech 27-7. Their next challenge will be against Duke’s Blue Devils in the upcoming weekend showdown.

In a nail-biting Iron Bowl, No. 10 Alabama emerged victorious over Auburn, securing their position in the SEC title game. The Crimson Tide is set to face No. 4 Georgia, who triumphed over No. 23 Georgia Tech on Friday, solidifying their place in the championship clash.

The Big Ten spotlight saw No. 1 Ohio State dominate No. 15 Michigan with a 27-9 victory, earning them a spot in the conference championship. The Buckeyes are scheduled to take on No. 2 Indiana for the coveted title.

Meanwhile, the Big 12 championship will feature a compelling rematch between No. 7 Texas Tech and No. 11 BYU, rekindling the rivalry from the Red Raiders’ previous win over the Cougars in November.

What will it all mean for the rankings?

Here’s the latest:

Who might rise and fall in this week’s poll

Stock up: Georgia, Texas, Vanderbilt, Miami, Oregon, Texas Tech.

Stock down: Texas A&M, Michigan, Georgia Tech, Tennessee, Pitt, SMU.

Who votes in the poll, and how does it work?

AP employees don’t vote themselves, but they do choose the voters. AP Top 25 voters comprise around 60 writers and broadcasters who cover college football for AP members and other select outlets. The goal is to have every state with a Football Bowl Subdivision school represented by at least one voter.

There is a 1-to-25 point system, with a team voted No. 1 receiving 25 points down to 1 point for a 25th-place vote. After that, it’s simple: The poll lists the teams with the most points from 1 to 25, and others receiving votes are also noted.

Voting is done online, and the tabulation is automated.