Alabama’s prospects of returning to the College Football Playoff hinge on the outcome of Saturday’s ACC Championship game, where Clemson is set to face SMU. If Clemson wins, Alabama might secure its ninth playoff berth in the last eleven seasons.
Currently positioned as the 11th team in the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings released Tuesday, Alabama sits just above Miami, who recently suffered their second defeat of the season against Syracuse. Both teams missed out on their respective conference championship games, which could prove pivotal in the final rankings expected this Sunday.
Warde Manuel, chairman of the CFP selection committee, stated that teams not participating in championship games would maintain their current standings as they lack new performance data for evaluation. Alabama has shown stronger metrics in their season performance, boasting a 3-1 record against ranked teams and a 6-1 record against opponents with winning records, whereas Miami is 0-1 against ranked teams and 4-2 against winning opponents.
If the status quo holds and Alabama finishes ahead of Miami, it would seem the Hurricanes, despite their strong win rate, may not advance to the playoff. The rankings emphasize that momentum from recent games, with Miami losing twice in their last three outings, played a significant role in evaluations.
Additionally, regardless of conference performance, a strong case may be made for Alabama’s inclusion, especially if certain games in other conferences yield unforeseen results. For instance, should Boise State falter against UNLV, Arizona State and Iowa State’s outcomes could shift the playoff picture.
The SEC is known for its competitiveness, and the acknowledgment from both Alabama and Miami’s coaching staff regarding the harsh realities of playoff selection adds a layer of intrigue to the conversation. Miami’s commissioner expressed disappointment with their ranking, hoping for a revision that would place them in the playoff contention.
Alabama’s struggle earlier in the season with three losses (including two close games) adds to the drama, but they are still regarded as one of the best teams based on their overall body of work. The committee’s next rankings can be a turning point, as the focus shifts to performance during these championship games.
The playoff landscape is culminating in an exciting conclusion, with Alabama’s hopeful path reminding fans of the unpredictable nature of college football and the passion that drives it. While outcomes are yet to be determined, this scenario allows for a thrilling final stretch leading into the CFP National Championship on January 20 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.