CFP Chair Addresses Miamis Playoff Hopes After Rankings Shift

The Miami Hurricanes made a stunning jump in the latest College Football Playoff rankings. They are now the highest-ranked team from the Atlantic Coast Conference. This dramatic shift occurred in the second set of rankings released on Tuesday night. The development places Miami squarely in the playoff picture for the first time this season.

Miami surged from No. 18 to No. 15 in the new poll. This positions them as the ACC’s sole representative in the projected playoff field if the season ended today. According to Reuters, the committee’s decision highlights the team’s strong performance and potential.

Committee Chair Points to Consistency and Eye Test

College Football Playoff committee chair Mack Rhoades explained the reasoning behind Miami’s significant rise. He noted the team’s consistency, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. Rhoades also emphasized that Miami has been “really, really good on defense.”

The head-to-head result against Notre Dame was a major topic of conversation for the selection group. Rhoades stated that the “eye test” played a crucial role in their evaluation. He expressed great respect for the Hurricanes’ abilities on both sides of the ball.

Complex Path to ACC Championship Game Remains

Despite their new status, Miami’s path to the conference title game is not guaranteed. The Hurricanes currently sit on the outside of the ACC championship race. They must win their remaining games and get help from other teams losing to reach the title game in Charlotte.

This creates a complex scenario for the playoff. The ACC is widely viewed as a one-bid league for the College Football Playoff. The conference champion would receive the bid, potentially leaving a higher-ranked Miami team out of the tournament if they do not win the ACC.

The final month of the season will be critical for the Hurricanes. Their new ranking provides a major opportunity. The Miami Hurricanes now control their own destiny in the College Football Playoff race, but they must navigate a tricky path to the ACC championship to secure their spot.

Dropping this nugget your way-

What does Miami need to do to make the College Football Playoff?

Miami must win its remaining regular-season games. The team also needs to secure a spot in the ACC Championship game. Winning the conference title would virtually guarantee a playoff berth.

Why is Miami ranked above other ACC teams?

The committee valued Miami’s consistency and strong defensive play. The “eye test” was also a significant factor in their decision. This combination propelled them past other conference rivals.

Who is the chair of the CFP selection committee?

The committee is currently chaired by Mack Rhoades. He is the athletic director at Baylor University. Rhoades explained the committee’s rationale on a national broadcast.

What was Miami’s previous ranking?

Miami was ranked No. 18 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings. Their jump to No. 15 represents one of the largest gains this week. This moved them ahead of several other contenders.

Can Miami make the playoff without winning the ACC?

It is highly unlikely. The ACC is generally considered a one-bid conference for the playoff. The automatic bid goes to the conference champion, making that path essential.