CFP Rankings Released: What We Learned
By: Grayson Mann
The final stretch of the college football season has finally arrived, and with what comes the first rankings from the college football playoff committee.
The CFP has Tennessee, Ohio State, Georgia, and Clemson in the top four, with many fans surprised to see Michigan left outside the mix at the number five spot. When asked why Clemson has ranked ahead of Michigan, CFP chairman Boo Corrigan had this to say on why the Tigers were ranked as the fourth-best team in the country.
“I think as you look at it, Clemson, they’re 5-0 against teams that are over .500. Michigan was 2-0 going against opponents that were over .500. That is clearly a factor going in.”
Corrigan also noted wins over Wake Forest, who currently sits at 21 in the rankings, and a road win against Florida State was also essential for Clemson’s body of work. The Tigers will wrap up the season’s final stretch against Notre Dame, Louisville, Miami, and rival South Carolina. For Clemson, it is win, and you’re in.
Some other notable rankings within this first set are all of the Tigers ranked wins still hold as the Wolfpack, Orange, and Demon Deacons all finished in the top 25 of the CFP rankings. North Carolina, who could be a potential opponent should both make it to Charlotte, is sitting at seventeen and could very well move into the top ten before that matchup on December 3rd.
Alabama and TCU rank at six and seven, with the Crimson Tide having no room for error as they travel to LSU to face the top ten Tigers as Brian Kelly’s squad has been playing their best football as of late. LSU as a playoff sleeper could be something to consider as well as Oregon and USC, who both are on track for a matchup in the PAC-12 championship where the winner could very well sneak into the playoff.
Each week now carries a new significance as the postseason draws closer, with matchups in Atlanta and Glendale now on the horizon on New Year’s Eve.
