With the ACC championship game between Clemson and SMU approaching, Alabama is on the verge of potentially securing a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the ninth time in the last 11 years. Currently, Alabama is ranked No. 11 in the CFP selection committee’s latest rankings, just ahead of Miami.
The Crimson Tide, under first-year coach Kalen DeBoer, experienced three losses this season, including a tough 24-3 defeat against Oklahoma. Miami, on the other hand, has also seen setbacks, with their latest loss being a close 42-38 against Syracuse. Due to both teams not qualifying for their respective conference championship games, the chances for Miami to surpass Alabama in the final rankings seem slim.
CFP selection committee chairman Warde Manuel emphasized that teams not competing this weekend will not see any changes in their rankings as there are no additional performances to assess. Thus, Alabama’s position remains stable leading up to the critical final rankings announcement on Sunday. He pointed out that Alabama’s performance against ranked opponents has been stronger than that of Miami, which could play a role in their potential playoff inclusion.
This year’s top rankings include undefeated Oregon in the lead, followed by Texas, Penn State, Notre Dame, and Georgia, while Ohio State slipped to No. 6 following a surprising loss to Michigan. The ranking of Alabama places them in a favorable position compared to other teams with three losses.
As for the upcoming conference championship games, the outcomes could dramatically alter the playoff landscape. If Clemson defeats SMU, they could secure the ACC’s automatic bid, complicating matters for Alabama if the Mustangs are also in contention.
ACC commissioner Jim Phillips expressed disappointment regarding Miami’s drop in ranking and hopes the selection committee will reconsider their positioning. Coach Mario Cristobal defended Miami’s standing, noting their strong ten-win season and close losses, arguing they deserve better recognition.
As the playoff picture continues to evolve, Alabama’s fate now hinges not only on their past performance but also on the outcomes of this weekend’s games. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the college football season, with the final CFP rankings to be revealed shortly.
In summary, Alabama sits in a favorable position for a playoff berth due to their higher performance ratings, while Miami, despite a strong season, faces challenges in securing one of the final spots. The upcoming championship games may reshape the current standings, heightening anticipation as fans await the final rankings announcement. This season showcases the unpredictable nature of college football and highlights the importance of every game in determining playoff eligibility, fostering hope for excitement in the concluding weeks of the season.