The Unexpected Expansion of Boise State in NCAA Football Poll Projections

Boise State University, ranked around the 10th, 11th, or 12th in most NCAA football polls, has recently been projected to leapfrog several teams, including the perceived top team, Penn State (PSU), and secure a No. 4 bye in the playoffs. This projection has raised questions regarding the criteria used to determine playoff seeds, particularly the importance of conference champions.

Why the Discrepancy?

The question remains, isn’t it the case that the top four seeds in the playoffs must be conference champions? In most poll systems, the answer to this is often, “Yes.” However, in the case of Boise State, they are a member of the Mountain West Conference, which is frequently considered a lesser conference in comparison to powerhouses such as the SEC, Big Ten, ACC, and others.

This disparity highlights a complex issue within NCAA football. While Boise State has maintained high standings in their polls, traditionally, conference champions are more likely to secure top seeds. However, Boise State's recent performance and strength in their conference suggest a significant challenge to this norm.

Rankings and Conferences

Let's take a closer look at the current standings. The top four seeds of the playoffs, according to most polls, are typically determined by conference champions. This year, the SEC, Big Ten, and ACC are among the strong contenders. The remaining conference, the American, is still up for determination. The conference champions of the SEC, Big Ten, and ACC are:

SEC - LSU or Georgia Big Ten - Michigan or Ohio State ACC - Clemson or Florida State American - TBA (To Be Announced)

Boise State, in contrast, is a standout in their conference. However, their overall ranking is not as high as these top-seeded conferences' champions. This presents a unique situation where a lesser-known conference team can challenge the status quo. The recent success of Boise State has shone a spotlight on this anomaly and the criteria that govern playoff seeding.

Fairness and Realpolitik

Moving beyond the technicalities, why are we witnessing this expansion of Boise State's playoff prospects? The answer may lie in the realm of realpolitik—the politics of the situation. If major conferences were to see Boise State or similarly underperforming teams dominating their polls, they might question the fairness and integrity of the entire system. This could lead to recalls and reevaluations, potentially shifting power dynamics.

On the flip side, if minor conferences continue to see their best teams outshined by teams perceived as lesser, they might ultimately choose to abandon the NCAA entirely. This would be detrimental to the integrity and inclusiveness of college football. Hence, maintaining a system that rewards both self-preservation and fairness is crucial.

Philosophical Undertones

For spectators and fans who see this as a philosophical question—why aren’t the best teams seeded highest?—the answer is complex. The system used to seed teams is a product of negotiation and consensus, aiming to balance competitiveness and fairness.

While Boise State's recent performance is noteworthy, the reality is that team rankings often reflect ongoing discussions and negotiations within the NCAA. The system is designed to accommodate a diverse range of conferences and teams, ensuring a level playing field for all participants.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the rise of Boise State in the rankings and their potential for a high seed in the playoffs is a fascinating case study in the complexities of college football. While it may seem unfair based on traditional criteria, the system is constantly evolving to reflect the changing landscape of college athletics. Whether you're a fan of Boise State or Penn State, the story of this unexpected rise challenges us to rethink what we consider fair and appropriate in the world of college football.

As the season progresses, fans will closely watch the developments in each conference to see if Boise State or another team from a lesser-known conference can continue to challenge the status quo. This story is far from over, and the drama is only just beginning.