Alabama’s chances of returning to the College Football Playoff are looking strong, particularly if Saturday’s ACC championship game between Clemson and SMU unfolds favorably. Currently ranked No. 11 in the College Football Playoff (CFP) committee’s latest rankings, Alabama sits just ahead of Miami, which faced disappointment after slipping six spots to No. 12 following its loss at Syracuse.
Despite three losses this season under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, which include a significant defeat at Oklahoma, Alabama has demonstrated a competitive edge with a 3-1 record against ranked opponents. In contrast, Miami has not yet secured a win against any teams currently in the CFP rankings. The selection committee’s chairman, Warde Manuel, pointed out that Alabama boasts a stronger overall record against winning teams and reiterated that the rankings for teams not competing in championship matches will remain unchanged.
The top four teams—Oregon, Texas, SMU, and Boise State—are set to receive first-round byes in the upcoming 12-team playoff format. This exciting new format is designed to enhance competitiveness and provides opportunities for more teams to showcase their abilities on a larger stage. Should Boise State lose to UNLV in the Mountain West Championship, Arizona State or Iowa State may rise as potential contenders for the final top-ranked conference champion position.
Alabama’s ranking is precarious, as a Clemson victory could complicate the selection committee’s decision between the 11-2 Mustangs and the Tide. The committee, while recognizing Alabama’s edge over Miami, has opened the door for re-evaluation based on the outcomes of this weekend’s games. Miami’s coach, Mario Cristobal, has rallied for support, emphasizing that his team, which achieved ten wins this season, deserves consideration for one of the playoff spots.
As the atmosphere around college football intensifies with the approaching playoffs, the focus shifts not only to the performance of the teams involved but also the structure that allows for broader representation. The upcoming matchups promise thrilling action and an opportunity for teams like Alabama and Miami to solidify their legacies in the College Football Playoff history.
**Summary:** Alabama is eyeing a return to the College Football Playoff, currently ranked No. 11, with its fate potentially influenced by the outcome of the ACC championship game. Miami’s fall to No. 12 has sparked frustration from the ACC, as both teams missed their conference championship games. The CFP’s final rankings will be released soon, with the excitement surrounding the new 12-team playoff format.