CFP Rankings: Committee Bias Concerns Ahead

**CFP Rankings Anticipation Marred by Pre-Release Controversy: Forde Alleges ‘Brand’ Bias**

**NEW YORK, NY – October 29, 2023** – The highly anticipated reveal of the first College Football Playoff (CFP) Top 25 rankings for the 2023 season is just days away, set to drop this coming Tuesday, October 31st. However, the pre-ranking buzz is already charged with controversy, as Sports Illustrated’s Pat Forde has launched a scathing critique of the CFP selection committee’s methodology, predicting a bias towards traditional powerhouses over on-field performance.

In a piece published on SI.com, Forde expressed significant frustration, arguing that the 13-member committee often prioritizes a team’s “brand” and historical reputation, particularly those from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Big Ten, at the expense of current resumes, especially from undefeated teams in other conferences.

Forde’s core concern centers on what he terms an “inherent advantage” given to SEC and Big Ten giants. He predicts that the inaugural rankings could see teams like Ohio State or Georgia potentially ranked higher than currently undefeated contenders such as Washington or Florida State. This, he contends, might occur even if the latter teams boast stronger schedules or more convincing performances to date.

He specifically highlighted a potential scenario where an undefeated Washington team, fresh off a signature victory over Oregon, could still find itself ranked behind a one-loss SEC or Big Ten contender. For Forde, this perceived bias risks undermining the fairness of the ranking system, failing to accurately reflect the nation’s best teams as the critical month of November approaches.

The CFP selection committee, comprising former coaches, athletic directors, and administrators, is tasked with evaluating teams based on various criteria, including strength of schedule, head-to-head results, common opponents, and conference championships. Their ultimate goal is to select the four best teams to compete in the playoff semifinals. However, the subjective nature of the “eye test” and the weight given to different metrics often spark intense debate among fans and analysts alike.

As of late October, several teams remain undefeated, including Michigan, Georgia, Ohio State, Florida State, Washington, and James Madison (though ineligible for the CFP due to FBS transition rules). Many one-loss teams from major conferences also remain firmly in the playoff hunt.

Forde’s preemptive strike sets a combative tone for Tuesday’s release, ensuring that every ranking decision, particularly concerning undefeated teams and perceived conference strength, will be scrutinized under a microscope. The impending rankings will not only shape the national conversation around the playoff picture but also fuel the ongoing debate about the committee’s impartiality and consistency as college football heads into its decisive stretch.