This past week the College Football Playoff Selection Committee released its first rankings of the season. These rankings caused quite a stir among Buckeye fans, as the undefeated defending national champions came in at number three. To my fellow Buckeyes who were in any way concerned by this, I say, not so fast my friends. The college football playoff rankings do not matter — at least not yet. So if the Buckeyes not coming in at number one concerned you, here are five reasons it shouldn’t have:
1. At this time last year, The Buckeyes were at No. 16.
Although it may be hard to believe after that incredible national championship run to the end of the season, Ohio State was No. 16 in the committee's first rankings last year. In addition, only one of the four teams in the top four at this point last year actually made the playoff. Let's stop worrying about the committee's rankings until a month from now, when they actually matter.
2. Ohio State could lose and still would likely make the playoff.
Not only did Ohio State make the playoff last year with one loss, but three of the four teams had a loss. Even though three out of the four teams currently in the top four are undefeated, that will certainly not be the case by the time the regular season ends. Granted, the who and how of a potential Ohio State loss will be a major factor, I still believe a one-loss Ohio State team will have a place in the playoff just like last year.
3. The defending National Champion bias.
Yes, last season is over, and yes, ideally it shouldn't have any influence over this season. However, the fact of the matter is that it has a major influence. As demonstrated by Florida State last year, the defending National Champion always gets the benefit of the doubt. If Ohio State survives the remainder of the season unbeaten, I would be shocked if the committee did not give the defending champs the one seed.
4. The Urban Meyer effect.
As demonstrated by Ohio State's late-season run last year, we probably have yet to see the Buckeyes anywhere near their best. Urban Meyer teams always finish the season playing their best football of the season and that thought with this team is terrifying. Even though the Buckeyes are undefeated, most would say they just haven't been firing on all cylinders yet this season. However, if last season is any indication, we will see the most talented team in the country come to life to close out the season.
5. Ohio State's tiebreaker: money.
If Ohio State does end up losing and finds itself in a virtual tie for the fourth spot in the playoff, the Buckeye faithful should feel pretty good about their position. Ohio State has the largest fan base it the country, and leaving the Buckeyes out of the playoff means leaving some serious money on the table. We saw this tiebreaker enacted last year when the committee shocked the nation be choosing the Buckeyes over Texas Christian. Unless the Buckeyes give the committee no choice, it's hard to believe the committee will leave the Buckeyes and their fan base out of the playoff.
So, my fellow Buckeyes, do not fret over midseason rankings. Although it may hurt our pride not to be No. 1, the only thing that matters is being in the final four on December 6.
