Celeb & Ent

Week 11 Anger Index: The case for outrage over BYU’s and Miami’s CFP rankings

The initial College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings for the 2025 season have ignited a wave of debate among fans and analysts alike, particularly regarding which teams and conferences may feel slighted by the committee’s decisions. The rankings, released earlier this week, saw familiar powerhouses at the top, but several teams that had strong seasons were left on the outside looking in. Notably, the Big Ten and SEC, two of college football’s most competitive conferences, had teams that were ranked lower than expected, raising eyebrows and prompting discussions about perceived biases in the selection process.

One of the most significant upsets came from the Big Ten, where the Michigan Wolverines, who have maintained an impressive record this season, found themselves ranked lower than rivals Ohio State and Penn State. Michigan’s exclusion from the top four has sparked controversy, especially given their recent successes and the quality of their schedule. Meanwhile, in the SEC, the Alabama Crimson Tide and Georgia Bulldogs, traditionally dominant forces, were also positioned lower than anticipated. This has led to speculation about the committee’s criteria for ranking, with many questioning whether the strength of schedule or head-to-head matchups were adequately considered. The SEC’s depth is often touted, but the rankings suggest that the committee may favor teams with marquee wins, leaving some teams feeling undervalued despite their performances.

Additionally, the rankings have raised concerns about the potential impact on the playoff landscape. Teams from the Group of Five conferences, such as the Mountain West and AAC, have also expressed frustration, as they often struggle to break into the top rankings despite strong seasons. The committee’s tendency to favor Power Five teams could perpetuate a cycle where non-Power Five teams remain overlooked, regardless of their accomplishments. As the season progresses, the implications of these rankings will become clearer, but for now, the debate continues, with fans and analysts eagerly anticipating how the committee will adjust its rankings in the coming weeks.