The College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings took an unexpected turn this week, leaving fans of the Miami Hurricanes stunned and outraged as Alabama leapfrogged their team despite Miami’s 9-1 record and a bye week. Alabama’s convincing win against Mercer, combined with standout performances from Jalen Milroe and the surging Crimson Tide offense, propelled them to No. 7 in the rankings—surpassing Miami, who now sits behind them.
For Miami fans, the sting is compounded by the College Football Playoff Selection Committee’s history of inconsistent decision-making. Just last week, rankings created similar uproar when BYU, despite a narrow escape against unranked Utah, jumped three spots to No. 6, while Tennessee remained static after a dominant performance. The Crimson Tide’s rise over the Hurricanes appears to follow a similar pattern, leaving fans questioning the committee’s logic.
Despite Miami’s solid record, their lack of wins against top-25 teams has weakened their resume. Meanwhile, Alabama boasts three victories over ranked opponents, including a marquee win against No. 10 Georgia. Even with two losses one against Vanderbilt and another to No. 11 Tennessee Alabama’s tougher schedule and higher strength-of-record ranking (seventh compared to Miami’s ninth) give the Tide the statistical edge.
While Hurricanes fans feel justified in their frustration, Alabama’s case for a higher ranking isn’t without merit. The committee’s inconsistency, however, has only fueled unnecessary debate and overshadowed the achievements of both teams. If both Alabama and Miami win out, they should secure spots in the inaugural 12-team playoff, but the rankings drama underscores the need for greater transparency and consistency in the CFP selection process.
For now, Miami fans are left grappling with the heartbreak of being overtaken, while Alabama marches forward, proving their mettle week after week.