Three teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) made their mark in the third College Football Playoff rankings revealed on Tuesday. Leading the charge was Miami, closely followed by SMU and Clemson. However, ACC commissioner Jim Phillips had some strong opinions about their placements, believing they should have been ranked higher.
Jim Phillips: ‘We have to win, and all of this is a moot point’
Phillips didn’t hold back when discussing the rankings during his appearance on ACC PM. He expressed his disappointment with the College Football Playoff committee, particularly regarding Miami’s position. The Hurricanes, despite being on a bye week, dropped one spot to No. 8, while Alabama jumped to No. 7 after defeating Mercer. “Very honestly, I was disappointed,” Phillips stated. “I just think they’re a top-six team, and I don’t understand how they get leaped by another Power Four team that played an FCS game last weekend.”
The commissioner also highlighted the progress made by SMU since Kevin Jennings took over as quarterback. He drew a parallel to Florida State from the previous year, noting how perceptions can change quickly in college football. “Listen, what’s done is done. But this year, Kevin Jennings has taken over at SMU and they have not lost. To be 13th, I just think they’re inside the top 12,” he argued.
Strength of Schedule Issues
Both Miami and SMU face questions regarding their strength of schedule, which could impact their playoff rankings. According to ESPN’s FPI, the Mustangs’ schedule ranks a lowly No. 86 in the country, while the Hurricanes sit at No. 54 ahead of Week 13. With both teams among the 12 weakest schedules in the nation, it raises a critical question: how much does schedule strength matter when evaluating playoff contenders?
Phillips didn’t shy away from addressing Clemson’s ranking at No. 17 either. The Tigers have suffered two losses this season, including a significant defeat to Georgia and a 33-21 setback against Louisville. Despite these losses, Clemson boasts the No. 46 strength of schedule in the country. Phillips acknowledged their road success, emphasizing that they are one of only 10 or 11 FBS teams that remain undefeated on the road.
The Road Ahead for ACC Teams
As the season winds down, Phillips understands that the path to the College Football Playoff hinges on winning in the final weeks. “At the end of the day, we still have two weeks left to play. I made those comments known to the committee members that are watching the ACC,” he stated.
It’s clear that the stakes are high. Miami, SMU, and Clemson need to capitalize on their opportunities to improve their standings. “Listen, we have to win, and all of this is a moot point about where our ranking is and whether we’re in with multiple teams or not,” Phillips added. The excitement of college football lies in its unpredictability, and every game counts.
What Does It Mean for the ACC?
The ACC has been a competitive conference this season, and the rankings reflect that. With Miami positioned as one of the four highest-ranked projected conference champions in the 12-team bracket, there is still hope for a strong playoff representation. However, the committee’s decisions have raised eyebrows, especially with Miami’s drop in the rankings despite their inactivity.
Phillips believes that the perception of teams can shift dramatically based on their performance and the narratives surrounding them. He pointed out that last year, Florida State’s struggles without Jordan Travis cost them a shot at the semifinals. “We heard last year with Florida State that they didn’t look like they were the same team without Jordan Travis, and that ultimately cost us and cost Florida State a chance to be in the semifinals,” he recalled.
As the ACC teams gear up for their final games, the pressure is mounting. Fans are left to wonder: Can Miami, SMU, and Clemson rise to the occasion? Will they prove Phillips right and secure their spots in the playoff conversation?
In the thrilling world of college football, every game is a chance for redemption, and every ranking is a reflection of the battles fought on the field. As the season approaches its climax, all eyes will be on the ACC teams to see if they can turn the committee’s doubts into triumphs. The excitement is palpable, and the stakes couldn’t be higher!
