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HomeSportClemson's Overranking in the College Football Playoff: A Closer Look at the...

Clemson’s Overranking in the College Football Playoff: A Closer Look at the Snubs and Grades

 

Grades and Snubs from College Football Playoff Rankings: Clemson Ranked Too High


As the regular college football season nears its end, the weekly release of the College Football Playoff rankings garners more attention and analysis.

 

Just when everyone thinks they’ve figured out how the playoff bracket might shape up, unpredictable events arise, leading to even more uncertainty regarding the 12-team playoff lineup. The recent weekend saw Ohio State dominate Indiana and some SEC teams face significant setbacks, quickly reshaping the anticipated playoff field.

With only one week of regular season games left before the conference championships, here are the evaluations of the selection committee’s latest rankings.

 

1. Oregon: A+

Oregon remains unbeaten going into the final week and has claimed the season’s most impressive victory against Ohio State, holding the top spot in the rankings.

 

2. Ohio State: A+

Ohio State’s decisive victory over Indiana confirms its status as a top-two team as they gear up for a likely rematch with Oregon.

 

3. Texas: A

A win over rival Texas A&M would not only secure Texas a spot in the SEC championship game, but it would also enhance its postseason resume.

 

4. Penn State: B-

The win against Minnesota didn’t inspire confidence, and there are questions about whether they deserve to keep this ranking.

5. Notre Dame: A-

While Army is unranked, Notre Dame performed well against them, displaying their dominance over recent weeks. A win against Southern California would secure a playoff home game.

 

6. Miami: A

Previously, Miami could have been ranked higher than Alabama, and they now have a solid chance of reaching the playoff if they defeat Syracuse in their regular season finale.

 

7. Georgia: A

Georgia is the first beneficiary of Alabama and Mississippi’s losses. If they finish the regular season at 10-2, their playoff prospects look strong heading into the SEC title game.

8. Tennessee: C+

Although placed right behind Georgia, the Volunteers are not being penalized too harshly for their puzzling loss to Arkansas. A win over Vanderbilt could enhance their playoff chances.

9. Southern Methodist: A-

Finally receiving recognition as a genuine playoff contender; however, the struggles of Brigham Young are seemingly affecting SMU more than warranted.

10. Indiana: B-

Indiana should be relieved that Alabama and Mississippi lost, sparing them questions about their playoff eligibility. Still, their resume is stronger than SMU, and they should be ranked higher.

 

11. Boise State: A

Boise State’s upward movement in the rankings, albeit by one slot, indicates respect from the committee. Their position relative to the leading Big 12 team will be an important aspect to monitor.

12. Clemson: D+

Clemson’s rise by five spots is questionable because they have not performed well lately. A victory against South Carolina could alter perceptions.

13. Alabama: A-

Alabama fans might be puzzled as to why they are ranked below a Clemson team that struggled against Georgia; however, only scoring three points against Oklahoma significantly impacted their ranking drop.

 

14. Mississippi: A-

Between Alabama and Mississippi, the impact of each team’s loss has been debated. While Alabama faced a larger defeat, the Crimson Tide possess a superior resume compared to the Rebels.

 

15. South Carolina: B-

Although South Carolina is behind two teams it lost to, a victory against their in-state rival could present the committee with a potential playoff pathway.

16. Arizona State: A-

Arizona State has made a significant leap in the rankings. They are now in contention for the playoffs, but their chances for a first-round bye look uncertain.

17. Tulane: D

Should Boise State falter, what makes Tulane more likely to reach the playoffs? Their strength of schedule ranks at 100th nationally, and Army seems to have a stronger case than Tulane.

18. Iowa State: B+

Ranking Iowa State ahead of Brigham Young and just behind Arizona State is a reasonable decision, especially with Kansas State on the horizon.

 

19. Brigham Young: A

It’s remarkable how the Cougars transitioned from a strong playoff position to now needing Iowa State to lose against Kansas State.

20. Texas A&M: A-

Although losing to Auburn is disappointing, especially without notable victories, Texas A&M still has an opportunity to capture the SEC title.

21. Missouri: F

After their win against Oklahoma, which handled Alabama decisively, does Missouri gain any credibility? Should their standing be reconsidered?

They might be ranked? Perhaps at number 25 at the very most.

22. UNLV: C-

UNLV could play a spoiler role, especially with a possible rematch against Boise State coming up. They need a win over the Broncos to move past Tulane.

 

23. Illinois: C

A win against Rutgers isn’t very impressive, even with the higher-ranked teams struggling.

24. Kansas State: B+

With a victory over Colorado, it’s reasonable to rank Kansas State higher than the Buffaloes. Nevertheless, the Wildcats have only a slim chance of making it to the Big 12 championship game.

25. Colorado: A-

The Buffaloes still deserve a ranking, and they remain in contention for the Big 12 title.