CFP Rankings Highlight SEC Success Driven by Game Wins Not Lobbying
The initial College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings for this season have showcased the Southeastern Conference (SEC’s) strength, marking a significant improvement over the previous year. The SEC successfully placed six teams in the top 12 of the rankings, representing half of the playoff field. This change has sparked discussions on how schedule strength impacts playoff evaluations.
SEC Teams Dominate CFP Rankings
This year’s CFP rankings have been favorable to the SEC, with teams achieving a better performance than last season. Notably, the SEC has recorded an 11-3 record against other power conference teams and Notre Dame, compared to a 10-7 record at the same point last year.
Current Rankings
- 3. Texas A&M (8-0)
- 4. Alabama (7-1)
- 5. Georgia (7-1)
- 6. Ole Miss (7-1)
- 11. Texas (7-2)
- 12. Oklahoma (7-2)
- 16. Vanderbilt (7-2)
- 22. Missouri (6-2)
- 25. Tennessee (6-3)
Last year, the SEC had three teams in the playoff field, while this year’s rankings reflect a better standing. The only notable change is one more team in the top six compared to 2022.
Strength of Schedule Debate
Greg Sankey, the SEC commissioner, has been vocal about the need for the committee to respect the schedule strength of SEC teams. After last year’s playoff selections, he emphasized the differences in evaluation for teams with tougher schedules.
This led to modifications in the CFP’s approach to schedule strength metrics. The committee has started to place “more weight on the stronger teams,” according to selection committee chairman Mack Rhoades.
Future Challenges for SEC Teams
Several ranked SEC teams are preparing for crucial matchups in the upcoming weeks. Remaining games include:
| Ranked Team | Upcoming Games |
|---|---|
| Texas A&M | at Missouri, South Carolina, Samford, at Texas |
| Alabama | LSU, Oklahoma, Eastern Illinois, at Auburn |
| Georgia | at Mississippi State, Texas, Charlotte, Georgia Tech |
| Ole Miss | The Citadel, Florida, at Mississippi State |
| Texas | at Georgia, Arkansas, Texas A&M |
| Oklahoma | at Alabama, Missouri, LSU |
The SEC’s path to the playoff is promising, especially for teams like Texas A&M, Alabama, and Ole Miss. However, teams like Texas and Oklahoma still face challenges with their current performances.
Conclusion
The SEC’s successful lobbying efforts have been complemented by tangible improvements on the field. Winning critical nonconference games and minimizing bad losses have paved the way for a stronger position this season. As the playoffs loom, the SEC appears poised for success, contingent on maintaining current momentum and avoiding further losses.
