Paul Finebaum explain in details why College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee made a mistake by choosing SMU over Alabama.

Paul explain in details why College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee made a mistake by choosing SMU over Alabama…

why Paul Finebaum might argue that the College Football Playoff (CFP) selection committee made a mistake by choosing SMU over Alabama. While I can’t pull up Finebaum’s exact words, I can certainly craft a detailed response based on the typical arguments he might make on such an issue.

If SMU (Southern Methodist University) were to somehow be selected for the College Football Playoff over Alabama, Finebaum would likely present several key points on why this decision was a mistake:

1. **Strength of Schedule**: Alabama is a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), which is widely regarded as the toughest and most competitive conference in college football. Finebaum would likely argue that Alabama faced significantly tougher opponents throughout the season, making their resume more impressive. In contrast, SMU plays in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), a league that, while competitive, doesn’t have the same level of talent and depth as the SEC. The disparity in competition would be a crucial point in his critique, as the committee often values strength of schedule when selecting playoff teams.

2. **Historical Performance and Reputation**: Alabama has consistently been a top program in college football under head coach Nick Saban, with multiple national championships and playoff appearances. Finebaum would likely highlight Alabama’s pedigree and argue that their historic success is a critical factor in determining playoff inclusion. The program has a track record of performing well in high-pressure situations, which is something SMU, while improving, lacks in comparison.

3. **Alabama’s Record**: Even if Alabama had a loss or two on its record, Finebaum could argue that those losses came against elite competition, possibly teams that also had playoff-caliber seasons. He might suggest that even a one- or two-loss Alabama team has a higher ceiling and more potential in the playoffs than an undefeated or one-loss SMU team, particularly if SMU’s victories came against weaker competition.

4. **Team Depth and Talent**: Alabama typically has some of the best individual talent in the nation, with NFL-caliber players scattered throughout their roster. Finebaum would likely assert that Alabama’s depth and talent give them a much higher chance of succeeding in the playoffs than SMU. This is a point the committee often considers—teams that are consistently able to compete at the highest level due to elite talent are seen as having a better chance to make a deep run in the postseason.

5. **The Eye Test**: Finebaum often uses the “eye test” argument when discussing college football rankings. This refers to how teams look when you watch them play, not just based on stats and records. In his view, Alabama would likely pass this test with flying colors, showing an ability to compete at an elite level despite potential losses. SMU, on the other hand, might not have the same overwhelming presence or eye-catching performances when compared to Alabama.

In summary, Finebaum would likely argue that the committee made a grave mistake by selecting SMU over Alabama, citing the strength of schedule, historical success, talent depth, and overall ability to compete at the highest levels of college football. He would emphasize that the playoff committee should prioritize programs with a proven track record and the potential to win a national championship, something he believes SMU is not yet capable of, especially when compared to Alabama.