As the BYU Cougars prepare for their upcoming title game against Texas Tech, it is essential to consider their qualifications for the College Football Playoff (CFP). Despite facing only one defeat this season—a loss to the fifth-ranked Texas Tech—BYU has demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the year, and they should be included in the playoff discussion.
Head coach Kalani Sitake and athletic director Brett Yormark must make their voices heard. It is crucial for them to advocate passionately for their players, their program, and their fans. The time for silence has passed; they need to step up and make a strong case for BYU”s playoff candidacy.
The upcoming championship game is pivotal, but regardless of its outcome, both BYU and Texas Tech deserve playoff consideration. If the Cougars win, they will undoubtedly secure a playoff berth. However, even with a loss, their record of 11 victories against a single loss to a formidable opponent should carry significant weight in the committee”s decision-making process.
Throughout the season, BYU has avoided major missteps, consistently performing well despite some close calls. Their recent performance against UCF, while shaky at the start, ultimately led to a victory, affirming their capability and determination. Fans of BYU appreciate the passion, competition, and tradition of college football, but they are frustrated with how the postseason is determined.
The current playoff selection process often resembles a popularity contest influenced by subjective opinions rather than purely on-field performance. The committee”s rankings can sometimes seem arbitrary, favoring teams from Power 5 conferences while overlooking deserving programs like BYU. As the Cougars continue to gain recognition, it”s vital for them to challenge any biases that may exist within the committee.
Despite having a higher strength of record compared to some teams ranked above them, BYU finds itself at a disadvantage due to the committee”s preferences. The justification for ranking two-loss teams like Alabama and Oregon ahead of BYU raises questions about fairness and consistency in the selection process.
While Sitake has focused on developing his team and not concerning himself with external factors, this approach may leave BYU without a vocal advocate in the playoff conversation. Other coaches have been outspoken about their teams” playoff potentials, and it is time for Sitake to adopt a similar stance to ensure his players receive the recognition they deserve.
The dynamics of the committee”s rankings are often perplexing, and it is clear that human bias plays a role in their decisions. If BYU finishes the season with two losses, they risk being treated more harshly than other two-loss teams currently ahead of them. The question remains whether an automatic bid for conference champions is the only reliable path to the playoffs.
Given the competitive nature of the Big 12 this season, it is reasonable to argue that the conference deserves multiple playoff spots. Teams like Texas Tech, BYU, and Utah all have compelling cases for inclusion. Nevertheless, the power to influence playoff selections rests with committee members, who possess the authority to shape the postseason landscape.
In conclusion, the Cougars have proven their merit over the course of the season. As they approach the title game, it is crucial for key figures within the program to advocate for their place in the College Football Playoff, ensuring that their achievements are recognized and rewarded.
