CFP Rankings Shakeup: Alabama Plummets to No. 10 After Loss

UPDATE: The College Football Playoff Selection Committee has faced significant backlash following its latest rankings, which saw the Alabama Crimson Tide drop to No. 10 after a shocking 23-21 loss to the Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday, November 18, 2023. This immediate shift has left fans and analysts questioning the committee’s judgment as Alabama tumbles from its previous No. 4 position.

The rankings were updated just hours ago, and the impact is being felt across the college football landscape. Alabama’s second loss of the season, compounded by a previous defeat to Florida State (31-17) in Week 1, has led many to argue that the committee’s decision to place Notre Dame at No. 9 is unjust. Notre Dame holds an 8-2 record after defeating Pittsburgh (37-15) in their last outing.

Fans have taken to social media to express their outrage. One user exclaimed, “Notre Dame being ranked above Alabama & Miami is a joke!” while others voiced similar sentiments, arguing that Alabama’s victories, including wins against ranked opponents No. 4 Georgia and No. 20 Tennessee, should warrant a higher ranking than Notre Dame’s single top-25 win over No. 15 USC.

With the updated rankings, Alabama is set to face Eastern Illinois, a 3-8 FCS program, on Saturday, where they have a chance to reclaim respect in the eyes of the committee. Meanwhile, Notre Dame will host struggling Syracuse (3-7) the same day, adding pressure to both teams as they seek to solidify their playoff positions.

The debate over the rankings raises critical questions about the criteria used by the committee. Fans are demanding transparency, with one commentator stating, “What an absolute joke. Alabama has beaten more teams in this committee’s rankings than anyone else and we’re behind Notre Dame.”

As tensions rise and playoff spots hang in the balance, all eyes will be on the upcoming games. How these teams perform may very well influence the final rankings, and with the playoffs approaching, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.