US LBM Coaches Poll Week 14
USA TODAY’s Dan Wolken breaks down this week’s US LBM Coaches Poll and discusses how an undefeated FSU will miss the playoffs after ranking number 5.
Amid the final year prior to the College Football Playoff’s expansion, the ongoing debate surrounding the 10-season-old system seems to loom larger than ever.
Historically, an unbeaten team from the Power Five has always secured a spot in the field, while the SEC champion has also clinched a spot each season.
This year, Michigan and Washington are projected to be the top two, leaving Alabama, Texas, and Florida State vying for the two remaining spots. With the Crimson Tide winning the SEC title and the Longhorns holding a victory over Alabama, the Seminoles’ ranking remains uncertain.
Despite Florida State’s offensive struggles without Jordan Travis, they still have a shot at the No. 5 spot. Yet, it’s evident that the committee’s focus is on selecting the most competitive teams to vie for the College Football Playoff title.
The possibility of leaving the two-time defending champion out of the playoffs in favor of a team like Florida State poses a dilemma. However, if it happens, it would bring about two intriguing semifinal matchups.
Florida State’s absence from the playoffs also reshapes the outlook for the New Year’s Six games, potentially opening the door for Oklahoma to claim a spot.
Notes: Some conferences may not fulfill their bowl allotment. Asterisks denote a replacement pick. James Madison and Jacksonville State are eligible due to a lack of six-win teams to fill the 82 spots. Minnesota is included as the five-win team with the highest APR. Bold indicates a team that has accepted a berth.
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72931262/usa_today_21973134.0.jpg)
