The Cincinnati Bearcats were on track to make history after they defeated the Houston Cougars 35-20 in the American Athletic Conference Championship Game. The win rounded off the second successive title-winning season that the Bearcats have managed to complete unbeaten.

Since the win, it has now been confirmed that the Bearcats are in the College Football Playoffs. By reaching the Playoffs, they are now the first ever Group of 5 team in College Football to record that achievement. As per FOX College Football on Twitter:

No. 4 Cincinnati dominated the No. 21 Cougars in the Championship game. Quarterback Desmond Ridder and running back Jerome Ford led the Bearcats' offensive efforts. Together, the two combined for five touchdowns. The Bearcats won the game through efficiency in their possessions. They ended five of their first eight offensive possessions with touchdowns. With a firm hold so early into the game, there was no stopping them from there. On the result, head coach Luke Fickell said (via CBS):

“That's what we're capable of. It doesn't always happen but when things start rolling, the defense and the offense are playing complimentary football. It's tough to stop.”

Prior to the official announcement that his team made it into the playoffs, Fickell commented on the possibility of Cincinnati missing out on the playoffs (via cincinnati.com):

“If it's meant to be, it will be. I don't think these guys can be denied. Just the way they've answered the bell and everything that they've done all year. It would be a shame for them to be denied.”

Now that Cincinnati's playoff appearance has been made official, Luke Fickell will be hoping he and his team of history-makers can go as far as possible into the competition.