College Football Playoff Rankings

The College Football Playoff Committee engineered a subtle shift in its rankings and all but guaranteed the University of Miami a place in the top four in the final version.

Maybe it’s just the way the scheduling worked last Saturday, but Miami, previously ranked No. 3, had an ACC game at home against a solid Virginia team. Despite twice trailing by 14, the Hurricanes (10-0) rallied to beat the Cavaliers 44-28. The comeback, in front of a frenzied crowd, was impressive.

Clemson, previously No. 2, had a walk in the park against The Citadel. The Citadel competes at the lower FCS level and does not compete with the likes of Clemson (10-1). Clemson led 58-0 after three quarters and won 61-3.

So what did the committee do? It leapfrogged Miami over Clemson. Yes, Hurricanes at No. 2, Tigers at No.3.
“When you get down the way Miami did to Virginia two times, once in each half, and you have the poise and the ability to come back and win in a convincing manner, that is special,” said committee chair Kirby Hocutt.

You’ll never guess who’s playing in the ACC Championship game in Charlotte, N.C. Come on. Take a shot.

Yup. Miami and Clemson. Assuming both add victories this weekend – Clemson plays a decent South Carolina team and Miami gets a not-too-great Pitt side – they go to Charlotte with Miami holding an edge.

It’s hard to imagine Miami falling from second to, say, fifth, if it should lose a competitive game to Clemson. The fall from three to five is a bit easier to envision as it would mark a second loss for the Tigers.

Clemson is the defending national champion, but that won’t buy it entry into the final quartet. The Tigers very likely must win out, while Miami can afford not to win the ACC title.

 
 
Post By: Larry Weisman, a longtime sportswriter for USA TODAY, blogs for Twistity.com. Follow him on Twitter @MrLarryWeisman