The College Football Playoff (CFP) committee’s decision-making process has once again sparked controversy, with BYU’s recent performances drawing scrutiny. Despite a head-to-head victory over SMU earlier in the season, BYU dropped in the latest CFP rankings following a narrow loss to Kansas. Meanwhile, SMU climbed a spot, igniting discussions about the committee’s consistency and criteria.
BYU’s Case: A Key Victory Over SMU
On September 6, BYU edged out SMU 18-15 in a hard-fought battle in Dallas, Texas. While the Cougars have had their share of struggles, including the loss to Kansas, the head-to-head victory over SMU stands as a critical tie-breaker in the eyes of many analysts. However, the CFP committee appears to have weighed BYU’s recent struggles more heavily than their early-season triumphs.
This decision echoes the controversy from last season when Florida State was left out of the playoff despite being undefeated, as Alabama’s victory over Georgia and Texas’ win over Alabama established a precedent for prioritizing head-to-head results.
Latest CFP Rankings
BYU fell from No. 6 to No. 14 in the Week 3 rankings, while SMU climbed from No. 14 to No. 13. Here’s a look at the top of the rankings:
- Oregon (11-0)
- Ohio State (9-1)
- Texas (9-1)
- Penn State (9-1)
SMU’s climb and BYU’s fall come amid significant changes elsewhere in the rankings, with teams like Alabama and Georgia solidifying their playoff cases.
The 10-Year Rule of CFP Rankings
Critics argue that the CFP committee has become too focused on recent results rather than applying consistent metrics. Joel Dickson, a senior analyst, pointed out, “When the rankings get this close, head-to-head results should take precedence.”
What’s Next for BYU and SMU?
Both teams have challenging schedules ahead. BYU will face a tough Arizona State team on the road, while SMU travels to Virginia. These games could further clarify their standings and playoff aspirations.
A Look Ahead
As the regular season nears its conclusion, the CFP committee faces mounting pressure to justify its decisions. For BYU, their early-season win over SMU will remain a critical talking point, but their path forward will depend on securing decisive wins in the coming weeks.
For now, the rankings remain a heated battleground, with every game carrying the potential to reshape the playoff landscape.
