Category: Power Rankings

For the third weekend in a row, we learn that no team in the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 9 As it Should Be is safe from upsets. First, it was Georgia, followed by Wisconsin and now Oklahoma. I will note that Oklahoma’s loss to Kansas State is a better loss than Georgia’s to South Carolina who sported a losing record. The AP poll likely won’t reflect that and we all know why. Rankings should be fair and unbiased, but that’s not the world we live in when preseason polls ultimately affect the final rankings.

We always think there will be chaos in college football, but it rarely happens. However, this season it is clear that nothing can be taken for granted.

College Football Playoff

We now have enough information to start putting together CFB Playoff scenarios. So here is how it should shake out at this point.

1. Undefeated Big Ten Winner- (Ohio State/Penn State). But Minnesota could mess everything up by winning the Big Ten with one loss. Assuming that loss is to Penn State or Wisconsin, Minnesota would still have a real chance to get in.
2. SEC Champion- This gets a little complicated because Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and LSU could all win the conference and the winner could have 2 losses. Or you could have 1-loss Georgia or Florida beating an undefeated Alabama or LSU.
3. Clemson- They have no competition in the ACC so they will finish undefeated with a string of blowout victories.
4. Pac-12 Champion- (Oregon/Utah) If both teams finish the season 11-1 the conference championship game will featured a top 10 showdown.

The way this season is shaping up, everyone may be on board with an 8 team playoff. There will be so many 1 loss teams who will be deserving of a chance to play for a championship. Wouldn’t it just make more sense to have the five Power 5 champions and highest-ranked Group of 5 team to get automatic bids? There would still be two spots left for at-large bids. You would always get the best and most deserving teams in the tournament. That might actually cause teams to schedule better non-conference games because they would know they could still get in the CFB Playoffs with 1-2 losses. Fans would then get better games.

The Rules: No Bias, No Bull College Football Rankings

There is no more unbiased ranking out there than Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6. I get criticized from time to time by people who only want to see the college football world through the lens of the AP Poll. These rankings are not going to look like the AP Poll. Open your eyes to see a different view of evaluating the top 10. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.” I don’t believe in that. Teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. After the preseason rankings, only games played matter. No consideration is given for future games.

I re-rank the top 10 every Sunday from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information. So make sure to come back every Sunday. For reference, you can check College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 9.

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 10:

Next Up: Minnesota, Georgia, SMU, Michigan

Before you even ask: Auburn led Oregon for :09 of that game and Bo Nix has been awful passing the ball against any team with a pulse. Georgia has to play their way back in the mix after losing to 2-3 South Carolina at home.

10. Oklahoma Sooners (7-1)

Last Week: at 41-48 (L) Kansas State

Bad Loss to a good opponent. This is a much better loss that Georgia losing to S. Carolina The Sooners just ran out of time on their comeback against Kansas State. There are still no concerns about the Oklahoma offense even though they were stalled for much of the 2nd and 3rd quarters. However, the same cannot be said about Oklahoma’s leaky defense. At one point K-State scored on seven straight drives.

Alex Grinch had Oklahoma’s defense playing better but we should have seen this coming. They got no turnovers in the last three games and none Saturday either. Good defenses get stops and turnovers.

People are writing the Sooners out of the playoff, but it’s much too early, and way too many games left to do that.

9. Baylor Bears (7-0)

Last Week: 45-27 (W) at Oklahoma State

Baylor is a clear case of why preseason rankings matter in college football when they really shouldn’t. If any big named Power 5 conference team was 7-0 they would have so much more buzz around them. People would be talking CFB Playoff and Big 12 championship. I would be willing to bet most college football fans can’t name two players off their team. So, I’ll help out…

QB: Charlie Brewer, RBs: John Lovett, JaMycal Hasty, WR: Denzel Mims, Tyquan Thornton

8. Utah (7-1)

Last Week: vs 35-0 (W) vs Cal

Over the last two weeks, Utah has given up a total of 3 points and 230 yards of total offense. There is no more suffocating defense in college football. My question about Utah has been surrounding their offense. Can they score enough points in a shootout? Can Tyler Huntley be great passing the ball when someone stops their running game?

Since their surprising loss to USC, the Utes have been lights out. They do not have any signature wins set, but their dominance has been top tier and they have knocked down the opponents on their schedule. Things are falling into place for a top 10 showdown with Oregon in the Pac-12 Championship.

7. Florida Gators (6-1)

Last Week: IDLE

This week off came at the perfect time for the Gators. They need to get a few guys healthy, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. And the Gators need to get their offense together during the first 3 quarters of the game. They are money in the 4th though!

Dan Mullens will have a chance to get his biggest win at Florida when they play Georgia this week.

6. Oregon Ducks (7-1)

Last Week: vs 37-34 (W) Washington State

Playing against the #1 offense in the nation is tough, but the Ducks passed the test. Injuries are starting to mount for the Ducks. They were without their best LB Troy Dye for the Washington State game and it showed. The Ducks offensive line is the reason this team is 7-1. If you have not watched Oregon’s left tackle Penei Sewell play please do so. He is the best OL in the country and he’s only a sophomore.

Justin Herbert’s stats aren’t eye-popping, but he is playing extremely efficiently and he’s not turning the ball over.

People thought the the Pac-12 was out of the CFB Playoff conversation. But ten weeks into the season Oregon and Utah are squarely back in the conversation.

Check out our Pac-12 Football Podcast, Pac-12 Apostles:

5. Clemson Tigers (8-0)

Last Week: 59-7 vs Boston College

DOMINATION. This was probably Clemson’s most complete game of the season. It was good to see Trevor Lawrence have a game without an interception. I know it was against Boston College, but Alabama played Arkansas, the same thing. Dabo Swinney knows that his team just has to make it through their rather soft schedule unscathed to get to the CFB Playoff. The only difference between the Tigers and Bama is that Clemson struggled against UNC and Bama has struggled against no one.

Without any obvious opportunities for quality wins on the schedule, it is crucial the Clemson’s dominance remains on max.

4. Alabama Crimson Tide (8-0)

Last Week: 48-7 (W) vs Arkansas

No Tua, No Problem. Mac Jones stepped in and threw three touchdown passes to help Bama cruise to victory. All eyes will be on Tua’s ankle health over the next two weeks. Will he be back for the LSU game? We do need to see Bama’s rushing game improve.

It sure will be nice to see the Crimson Tide play a good team this season. Eight wins and no games against teams currently ranked in the top 25. The fact they have been #1 in the AP poll makes ZERO sense.

3. Penn State (8-0)

Last Week: 28-7 (W) at Michigan State

Slowly but surely the Nittany Lions are getting the respect they deserve. They have knocked off Iowa, Michigan, and Michigan State in consecutive weeks. Don’t even try to say Michigan is not good. They just blew the doors off Notre Dame who took Georgia to the edge. Penn State won’t be confused with an offensive juggernaut, but they do have serious big-play potential with WR KJ Hamler.

If Penn State finishes the season undefeated they will be the most battle-tested team in the nation. They would have beaten Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Ohio State, and the winner of the Big Ten West.

2. LSU (8-0)

Last Week: vs 23-20 (W) Auburn

We finally have seen someone slow down LSU’s explosive offense. Joe Burrow still finished 32-42 for 321 yards and a touchdown. The Tigers just keep passing every test thrown at them. A lot of people questioned their defense, but they showed up big against Auburn. Aside from one 70 yard run that didn’t score, Auburn got nothing.

Everything is on the line for LSU against Alabama next week. Will Ed Orgeron be able to dethrone Alabama even though they were crowned preseason champions?

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (8-0)

Last Week: vs 38-7 (W) Wisconsin

A lot of people expected the Wisconsin game to be close because of the bad weather, but I knew the Buckeyes would blow them out. This was a case of styles make fights. OSU’s high-powered offense against Wisconsin’s run the ball with ball-control style. The Buckeyes’ defense was just lights out. Chase Young is clearly the BEST defensive player in the country right now. There is no reason he shouldn’t be one of the frontrunners for the Heisman trophy. He dominated a very good offensive line with 4 sacks and 5 tackles for loss.

OSU continues to prove they are the most complete team in the country. They are dominant on offense, defense, and special teams. Plus they have multiple top 25 wins. They are the #1 team in the country.

Check back next Sunday morning for the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 10.

In back to back weeks we have a major upset that affects the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 9 As it Should Be team. Wisconsin fell to Illinois a week after Georgia got stunned by South Carolina. UGA fell to #10 in the AP poll despite losing at home to a team with a 2-3 record. But, watch how far Wisconsin falls down the polls after losing on the road. This is the entire reason the CFB rankings As It Should Be was created. Rankings should be fair and unbiased, but that’s not the world we live in when preseason polls ultimately affect the final rankings.

The way this season is shaping up, everyone may be on board with an 8 team playoff. There will be so many 1 loss teams who will be deserving of a chance to play for a championship. Wouldn’t it just make more sense to have the five Power 5 champions and highest-ranked Group of 5 team to get automatic bids? There would still be two spots left for at-large bids. You would always get the best and most deserving teams in the tournament. That might actually cause teams to schedule better non-conference games because they would know they could still get in the CFB Playoffs with 1-2 losses. Fans would then get better games.

The Rules: No Bias, No Bull College Football Rankings

There is no more unbiased ranking out there than Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6. I get criticized from time to time by people who only want to see the college football world through the lens of the AP Poll. These rankings are not going to look like the AP Poll. Open your eyes to see a different view of evaluating the top 10. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.” I don’t believe in that. Teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. After the preseason rankings, only games played matter. No consideration is given for future games.

I re-rank the top 10 every Sunday from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information. So make sure to come back every Sunday. For reference, you can check College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 8.

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 9:

Next Up: Auburn, Georgia, SMU, Baylor, Wisconsin

Before you even ask: Auburn led Oregon for :09 of that game and Bo Nix has been awful passing the ball against any team with a pulse. Georgia has to play their way back in the mix after losing to 2-3 South Carolina at home.

10. Utah (6-1)

Last Week: Arizona State

Utah has really good players, but they also have grown men playing. Behind BYU, they may have the oldest average age in college football. I have tried to doubt this team offensively but Zack Moss and Tyler Huntley just keep getting it done. The best thing Utah has going is their defense. They are physical, stout, and stingy. Through seven games they are barely giving up over 10 points per game in a conference known for scoring points.

9. Notre Dame (5-1)

Last Week: IDLE

A week off won’t hurt the Fighting Irish. Their body of work is solid so far. But they will need to be dominant to finish the season to have any chance at the CFB top 4 with one loss. Notre Dame doesn’t face another team that will be ranked for the rest of the season (maybe Virginia Tech).

8. Florida Gators (6-1)

Last Week: 38-27 (W) at South Carolina

If this team is nothing, they are resilient. The Florida Gators fight till the end. They are a 4th quarter team. They seem to make plays on defense and offense when it matters the most. Kyle Trask has been the best thing to happen to this team offensively. He is not the runner that we are used to seeing on Dan Mullen led teams, but he is a good passer.

This team seems to have the inside track to the SEC East right now. But a November 2nd date with Georgia will be the deciding factor.

7. Oregon Ducks (6-1)

Last Week: 35-31 (W) vs at Washington

The Ducks marched into Husky Stadium to play their biggest rival Washington and walked out with a win. Washington threw everything except the kitchen sink at the Ducks and they responded in a major way. The biggest concern for Oregon at this point is injuries. They have to keep their key players healthy if they want to finish the season 12-1 and have a legit shot at the CFB Playoff.

This is not the same Oregon team that got conservative and lost to Auburn in the second half of week one. Their defense has been one of the best in the country and they have hit their stride offensively.

6. Penn State (7-0)

Last Week: 28-21 (W) vs Michigan

I have mixed feelings about their win against Michigan. They jumped out early 21-0 early in the 1st half, but couldn’t put the Wolverines away. Their offense was largely ineffective after that. Their defense allowed multiple big plays as well. But at the end of the day, a win is a win. Michigan is not a great football team, but they are a good football team. A quality win for the Nittany Lions. It was very tight decision between PSU at #6 and #4 ahead of Bama and Clemson because of their schedules.

The winner of the Big Ten is 100% getting in the CFB Playoff if they are undefeated. Penn State is more than halfway home and has earned their way into the #6 spot of College Football Rankings Week 9.

Check out our Pac-12 Football Podcast, Pac-12 Apostles:

5. Clemson Tigers (7-0)

Last Week: 45-10 (W) at Louisville

The Tigers’ defense is so good, and they might be even better than last year. Good thing because Trevor Lawrence is having a real sophomore slump. He now leads the ACC in interceptions thrown. But he finished the game with a solid stat line, 20-29 233 yards, and 3TD, 2ints. This team is still dominating everyone so how can you dock them too many points. Florida and Georgia have offensive struggles too, but nobody seems to discount them for that. Weird right… SEC bias?

The only thing separating Alabama and Clemson right now is that Clemson struggled against UNC. Neither team has played anybody worth talking about.

4. Alabama Crimson Tide (6-0)

Last Week: vs 35-13 (W) at Texas A&M

Alabama has not played one team that is currently ranked in the top 25. The fact they have been #1 in the AP poll makes ZERO sense.

Alabama is vulnerable this year. This is not the same team we are accustomed to seeing. They aren’t running the ball dominantly and their defense is young and inexperienced. Tua Tagoviloa is the engine that makes this team go. His leadership, accuracy getting the ball to their talented WRs is what makes this 2019 team special. He left the Tennessee game in the second half and everything changed.

If he has to miss any time Bama could be in trouble. They should be able to get past Arkansas next week, but LSU on November 9th won’t go well.

3. Oklahoma Sooners (7-0)

Last Week: 52-14 (W) vs West Virginia

The numbers for Jalen Hurts are just getting silly at this point. He added another nearly 394 yards of total offense and 5 touchdowns. He now has 25 total touchdowns through seven games. It is hard to believe that Oklahoma’s offense is better than it was last year with Kyler Murray at QB, but they are.To make Oklahoma even more absurd, their defense is finally decent. They aren’t good yet, but are MUCH improved from the Swiss cheese defense last year.

2. LSU (7-0)

Last Week: 36-13 (W) at Miss State

LSU is destroying everyone in their way. Joe Burrow looks like not only an NFL quarterback, but he may be a franchise QB. I cannot wait to see this team play over the next three weeks against Auburn and Alabama. If they can win those two games, the path is clear to the College Football Playoff.

The only question is can their defense keep up when they get into a shootout.

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (7-0)

Last Week: 52-3 (W) at Northwestern

Ohio State chewed Northwestern up and spit them out. This team looks incredible. Their offense and defense have cut through any resistance like a hot knife through butter. Justin Fields clearly made the right move by leaving Georgia. He looks better than Jake Fromm, and his team does too.

The Buckeyes will breeze to the CFB Playoff top four if they beat Penn State on November 23rd.

Check back next Sunday morning for the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 9.

The Rules: No Bias, No Bull College Football Rankings

Week 7 provided us with our first major upset of a College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 8 As it Should Be team. I welcome more weekends like this. Chalk is boring. This is why I love college football. Every team is susceptible to be upset on any given Saturday. Georgia got stunned by a South Carolina team with a 2-3 record at home. They had been an en vogue pick to make the CFB Playoff. But, that ship has sailed unless they run the table and win the SEC.

The way this season is shaping up, everyone may be on board with an 8 team playoff. There will be so many 1 loss teams and Boise State who will be deserving of a chance to play for a championship. Wouldn’t it just make more sense to have the five Power 5 champions and highest-ranked Group of 5 team to get automatic bids? There would still be two spots left for at-large bids. You would always get the best and most deserving teams in the tournament. That might actually cause teams to schedule better non-conference games because they would know they could still get in the CFB Playoffs with 1-2 losses. Fans would then get better games.

The Rules: No Bias, No BS, No Agenda

There is no more unbiased ranking out there than Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6. I get criticized from time to time by people who only want to see the college football world through the lens of the AP Poll. These rankings are not going to look like the AP Poll. Open your eyes to see a different view of evaluating the top 10. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.” I don’t believe in that. Teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. After the preseason rankings, only games played matter. No consideration is given for future games.

I re-rank the top 10 every Sunday from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information. So make sure to come back every Sunday. For reference, you can check College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 7.

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 8:

Next Up: Utah, Auburn, Georgia, Texas

10. Notre Dame (5-1)

Last Week: 30-27 (W) vs USC

Why is Georgia ranked behind Notre Dame even though they beat them a few weeks ago? That’s the way the cookie crumbs when you lose to a team with a losing record at home. Notre Dame has knocked down a ranked Virginia and talented USC team since. The Fighting Irish are much faster and athletic than years past. I don’t believe they are a national championship-caliber team, but they are one of the better teams in college football.

9. Penn State (6-0)

Last Week: 17-12 (W) at Iowa

Penn State has been flying under the radar all season. It is time for them to step into the light. They haven’t earned the #9 spot with their schedule so far. But, their dominance has been impressive and the ‘next up” teams all have major blemishes. The Iowa game was not their best offensive output, but their defense was firm. This team doesn’t have the big names like Saquon Barkley and Trace McSorley, but they are destroying everyone in their path.

Big props to Penn State for dealing with the disrespectful letter sent to Jonathan Sutherland about his dreadlocks and tattoos.

SEE IT: Penn State players wear shirts in support of Jonathan Sutherland during warmupshttps://t.co/ZXWs7FNMaq

— The Daily Collegian (@DailyCollegian) October 12, 2019

8. Florida Gators (5-1)

Last Week: 28-42 (L) at LSU

I have gone from believing Florida was overrated with Franks at QB, to know this is a quality football team with Trask under center. As good as their defense is, they gave up too many big plays to Auburn and LSU. Dan Mullens has officially transformed the Florida Gators program. They are no longer in the SEC cellar. In fact, with Georgia’s loss to South Carolina, I now believe Florida is the best team in the SEC East.

7. Oregon Ducks (5-1)

Last Week: 45-3 (W) vs Colorado

Another week of football, another week the Oregon defense has held their opponent under 8 points. The Ducks turned a corner after the conservative play that cost them the Auburn game. This defense has only given up 52 points through 6 games. Oh, and they have a legit offense led by Justin Herbert. He has thrown a TD pass in 34 straight games. If the Ducks run the table through the Pac-12, they may sneak in the CFB Playoff top 4.

Opposing point totals last five games:
Nevada – 6
Montana – 3
Stanford – 6
California – 7
Colorado – 3

That's five straight games of lockdown, dominant defense. This isn't a fluke. This group is for real. Looking like one of the best Oregon defenses in quite some time.

— Erik Skopil (@Erik_Skopil) October 12, 2019

6. Wisconsin Badgers (6-0)

Last Week: vs 38-0 (W) vs Michigan State

Six games, four shutouts. That is an impressive stat, but only one of them was against a Power 5 opponent. The Badgers score high marks for dominance and they have one quality win against Michigan. The one thing holding them back is their schedule. Their non-conference schedule looks more like Alabama’s. Kent State, South Florida, and Central Michigan won’t impress anyone.

This Wisconsin team is different from the teams of the past. Jonathan Taylor is the bell cow, but the offense is not one dimensional. The rubber meets the road in two weeks when they head to Columbus to play O-H-I-O State.

Check out our Pac-12 Football Podcast, Pac-12 Apostles:

5. Oklahoma Sooners (6-0)

Last Week: 34-27 (W) vs Texas

The Red River Rivalry did not disappoint. Oklahoma got a quality win, but the step up in competition did bother the Sooners. Jalen Hurts was not quite as sharp and had two early turnovers in the RedZone that could have blown the game open.

Everyone has questioned the Sooners defense for the last 2-3 years. Against Texas, they showed moments of being extremely stout against the run. I believe Oklahoma will eventually win the Big XII, but it will not be without 1-2 nail-bitter games.

4. Alabama Crimson Tide (6-0)

Last Week: vs 47-28 (W) at Texas A&M

This was a fairly comfortable win for the Crimson Tide. However, there are some red flags emerging with this defense. They gave up 28 points to Texas A&M who Clemson held to 10 and Auburn held to 20. Alabama’s offense is so good that they can make up for any deficiency created by playing so many freshmen on defense. This could come back to bite them in the ass down the stretch in the SEC.

I am still extremely frustrated that Bama is so good and so talented but we have to watch them play four games they could roll their helmets out and win.

3. Clemson Tigers (6-0)

Last Week: 45-14 (W) vs Florida State

This game was 21-0 before Florida State knew what hit them. Clemson heard all the noise after their 1-pt win against North Carolina. They clearly wanted to send a message to the college football world that they are still the big dog on the block. Trevor Lawrence still hasn’t looked as good as last season. He threw for three touchdowns against FSU but had a terrible interception as well. If he does get his play together, Clemson may cruise to back-to-back championships.

2. LSU (6-0)

Last Week: 42-28 (W) vs Florida

LSU had their hands full with Florida but took care of business. It is still remarkable to see how explosive and fast-paced the Tigers’ offense is. Joe Burrow is efficient, accurate, and his swagger is on max. They are averaging nearly 50 points per game, and even the best defenses in the country would be hard-pressed against LSU’s offense. On top of a fantastic offense, they boast a fast and physical defense.

The Tigers’ defense has given up 38 points to Texas, Vanderbilt, and 28 points to Florida. That’s not good and potential liability.

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (6-0)

Last Week: IDLE

Nothing happened this week that could knock Ohio State from the #1 spot. No team is playing better in all three phases of the game. Their offense, defense, and special teams has been unstoppable. I can’t wait to see how this team responds against Penn State, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Check back next Sunday morning for the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 8.

The Rules: No Bias, No Bull College Football Rankings

Week 6 in college football provided a necessary shakeup in the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 7 As it Should Be. So many times reigning national champions and College Football Playoff teams get automatically put in the top spots the next season. However, every season is different, so last season’s results should have no bearing on this season. The idea that these teams can only fall in the rankings if they lose is flawed. We are supposed to be getting the best teams in the playoff for this season alone. Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Florida cannot be ignored for their body of work while we fawn over LSU, Alabama, Georgia, and Clemson.

At this point in the season, there are eight teams that can make a legitimate argument for inclusion in the College Football Playoff.

The Rules: No Bias, No BS, No Agenda

There is no more unbiased ranking out there than Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 6. I get criticized from time to time by people who only want to see the college football world through the lens of the AP Poll. These rankings are not going to look like the AP Poll. Open your eyes to see a different view of evaluating the top 10. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.” I don’t believe in that. Teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. After the preseason rankings, only games played matter. No consideration is given for future games.

I re-rank the top 10 every Sunday from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information. So make sure to come back every Sunday. For reference, you can check College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 6.

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 7:

Next Up: Penn State, Notre Dame,

10. Texas Longhorns (4-1)

Last Week: at 42-31 (W) West Virginia

I do not question the Longhorns offense and their ability to put up points. They have done it against everyone including LSU. I am very much concerned about this defense. They have given up 30 or more points in three of their five games. The rubber will meet the road on Saturday against Oklahoma.

9. Oregon Ducks (4-1)

Last Week: 17-7 (W) Cal

The Oregon Ducks have a real defense. This is not a drill. Oregon just gave up their first touchdown since week one of the season. The Ducks are the only team from the Pac-12 with any hope to make the CFB Playoff. Justin Herbert continued his consecutive games with a touchdown pass streak (33). Oregon’s running game ws operating on a high level. I do need to see the Ducks score more points.

8. Florida Gators (5-0)

Last Week: 24-13 Auburn

I have been very outspoken about what I think the ceiling is for this Florida Gators team. But they have earned their right in the College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 7 as it should be. They are a flawed team, but they play hard and have a fast, talented, and well-coached defense. The offense turns the ball over too much, they commit too many penalties, with a shaky offensive line. At the end of the day, winning matters, and quality wins count double. So, the Gators belong here.

7. Wisconsin Badgers (5-0)

Last Week: vs 48-0 (W) vs Kent State

It is time to give Wisconsin the respect they deserve. Their defense and running game are special, to say the least. Junior running back Jonathan Taylor is cementing his spot on the Wisconsin football Mt. Rushmore. He added another 186 yards and 4 touchdowns on only 19 carries. The Big Ten better buckle those chinstraps tight because the Badgers at coming in fast, and physical.

Check out our Pac-12 Football Podcast, Pac-12 Apostles:

6. Oklahoma Sooners (5-0)

Last Week: vs Kansas

Jalen Hurts took it light on Kansas. He only accounted for four total touchdowns and under 300 yards of total offense. This Oklahoma offense still looks incredible and unstoppable. Is there anything college football fans want more than to see Jalen Hurts and Oklahoma play in the College Football Playoff? That would be the greatest possible storyline in the 2019-20 season.

5. Alabama Crimson Tide (5-0)

Last Week: IDLE

Alabama’s schedule has been a cakewalk. I am just unsure how this team gets battle-tested to handle the stress of playing top competition. This same problem came back to bite them in the ass against Georgia in the SEC championship, and against Clemson in the national championship.

I am still extremely frustrated that Bama is so good and so talented but we have to watch them play four games they could roll their helmets out and win.

4. Clemson Tigers (5-0)

Last Week: IDLE

Clemson has not looked as dominant as they did last year. However, that is often typical of national championship teams. The goal this season is, continue to improve and finish undefeated to get into the tournament. The only reason the Tigers are ranked higher than Alabama is because of the schedule played. Through 5 games, they have played and beat four Power 5 teams.

3. LSU (5-0)

Last Week: vs 42-6 (W) Utah State

I thought LSU might have a little trouble easy with Utah State and pull away late. But, these are not your father’s Tigers. This offense is explosive and efficient. Joe Burrow threw for another 5 touchdowns. We will see what LSU’s offense is really about next week against Florida’s tough defense.

2. Georgia Bulldogs (5-0)

Last Week: 43-14 (W) at Tennessee

Georgia took whatever they wanted and did whatever they wanted against Tennessee. The Vols have been a doormat for the SEC and UGA rubbed all sorts of mud and dirt on them. Fromm was nearly perfect throwing the football and the running game averaged nearly 6 yards per carry. Dominance on max. That Notre Dame win keeps looking better and better each week.

1. Ohio State Buckeyes (6-0)

Last Week: 34-10 (W) vs Michigan State

Ohio State’s dominance has been unmatched this season. Their defense has only given up a grand total of 52 points in six games. Justin Fields cam back down to earth from his stratospheric numbers, but it didn’t matter against Michigan State. The Buckeyes rushed for 323 yards. Based upon what the teams have done from this season alone, I cannot keep OSU out of the #1 spot.

Check back next Sunday morning for the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 7.

The Rules: No Bias, No Bull College Football Rankings

Week 3 in college football provided a lot more information about teams in the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 4 As it Should Be. However, without any top 25 games, the top teams naturally cruised to easy victories. It was chalk, chalk, and more chalk. I do not project forward with the rankings of a team’s schedule, but as a fan, I can be damn excited.

There is no more unbiased ranking out there than Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 4. I get criticized from time to time by people who only want to see the college football world through the lens of the AP Poll. These rankings are not going to look like the AP Poll. Open your eyes to see a different view of evaluating the top 10. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.” I don’t believe in that. Teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. After the preseason rankings, only games played matter. No consideration is given for future games.

I re-rank the top 10 every Sunday from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information. So make sure to come back every Sunday.

For reference, you can check College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 3.

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 4:

Next Up: Oregon, Utah, UCF, Florida

10. Michigan Wolverines (2-0)

Last Week: IDLE

There are few times that coaches catch more heat after a win than Jim Harbaugh did after beating ARMY. Michigan needed to have an open week more than any other team in the country. The Wolverines need all the time they can to practice and clean up all the unforced errors. This week they travel to Wisconsin. A win would hold the critics at bay for a while, but a loss would bring “overrated” chants.

9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (2-0)

Last Week: 66-14 (W) vs New Mexico

Just like every other team who plays non-competitive games, there is not a lot to be learned. Ian Books’ numbers were spectacular though. He had over 400 yards of total offense and 6 total touchdowns. Surprisingly, the Fighting Irish did not run the ball well against New Mexico. Maybe they were just working on things in the passing game for Georgia?

Check out our Pac-12 Football Podcast, Pac-12 Apostles:

8. Texas Longhorns (2-1)

Last Week: 48-13 (W) vs Rice

Texas put the screws to Rice, as they were supposed to. A lot of times when college football teams lose heartbreaking games, they let that carry over to the next week. Tom Herman made sure his team put the LSU loss behind them and came out firing on all cylinders. Sam Ehlinger completed 23 of his 27 pass attempts. If he can keep that kind of efficiency, they will make a run at the top of the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 4.

7. Georgia Bulldogs (3-0)

Last Week: 55-0 (W) vs Arkansas State

I must applaud UGA and their fans for the “pink out” in honor of Arkansas State’s head coaches late wife. That was a great gesture and put life over football.

I cannot wait till next week against Notre Dame to see what this team is made out of. Their first three weeks have been a breeze, but they have been extremely dominant. The Bulldogs wide receiving core will need to step up in a major way. It is always good to see talented football teams play quality football games. Us fans deserve them. My mind says that Georgia is treating the regular season as a formality. They want Bama. Hopefully, they don’t overlook anyone in the process.

6. Auburn (3-0)

Last Week: 55-16 (W) vs Kent State

The Bo Nix hype has turned into 3-0 despite the play not being to the level Auburn will need to compete for the SEC crown. Next week they get a real test as they head to Texas A&M. Gus Malzahn has bet on himself calling plays this year and it has worked out so far. I am less confident about this team than I was after the Oregon win, but they still have the 2nd best win of any top 10 team. They did show a high level of dominance this week.

5. Ohio State Buckeyes (3-0)

Last Week: 51-10 (W) vs Indiana

They tried to hype up this matchup against Indiana, but it wasn’t even close. Ohio State had guys running wide open for Fields to throw to. And when they wanted to run it, JK Dobbins couldn’t be stopped. I’m not sure how we are supposed to find the four best teams when so many are elite. I’m interested to see how Justin Fields responds in a close game or when his team is down. We may not see that opportunity until the CFB Playoff.

4. Oklahoma Sooners (3-0)

Last Week: 48-14 (W) vs UCLA

Jalen Hurts and the Sooners cut through UCLA like a hot knife through butter. It was a light day of work for Hurts. He “only” accounted for 439 yards of total offense and 4 touchdowns. Lincoln Riley’s offense makes me want to ask for an internship at Oklahoma so I can learn it. Their defense does look better than last season. But it’s like an improvement from a 5-out-of-10 to a 6.5. There is still a lot of improvements that need to be made. But, their offense is so amazing that it may not matter.

3. Alabama Crimson Tide (3-0)

Last Week: 47-23 (W) at South Carolina

Finally a real opponent for Alabama. South Carolina put up a real fight for a half and was not scared of the Crimson Tide. Nick Saban is always pissed about something. So he can’t be happy about the times South Carolina just marched the ball down the field easily. Bama also is having difficulty running the football. I can’t remember the last time they were held to under 100 yards rushing in an SEC game. The passing game is working remarkably. Tua threw for 444 yards and 5 touchdowns. Dominance was there against a real opponent.

I am happy that we finally get so see Bama play a real opponent. I’m still afraid that their lack of consistent competition will cause them to get knocked off in the SEC championship.

2. LSU (3-0)

Last Week: 65-14 (W) vs Northwestern State

I am still in shock by what I am seeing by the LSU offense. In consecutive weeks Joe Burrow has thrown for 470 and 370 yards. They are a real live offense in 2019. For the first time in a long time, I believe LSU may be better than Alabama. Their November matchup will be an epic showdown. It should be a shootout because neither defense looks untouchable.

1. Clemson Tigers (3-0)

Last Week: 41-6 (W) at Syracuse

In three games against Georgia Tech, Texas A&M and Syracuse, Clemson has only given up a combined 30 points. I refuse to call teams unbeatable, but this team is on the verge of making me change my policy. They are destroying everybody and Trevor Lawrence is not even playing his best football. Syracuse picked him off twice and he was just not as sharp as last season. The Tigers wide receivers and running backs are capable of scoring every time they touch the football.

It is clear why the Tigers are #1.

Check back next Sunday morning for the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 4.

The Rules: No Bias, No Bull

There is no more unbiased ranking out there than Unafraid Show’s College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 3. I get criticized from time to time by people who only want to see the college football world through the lens of the AP Poll. These rankings are not going to look like the AP Poll. Open your eyes to see a different view of evaluating the top 10. Most polls including the College Football Playoff Committee give college blueblood teams a massive “benefit of the doubt.” I don’t believe in that. Teams are ranked by the correct criteria: quality wins, schedule played, and dominance. After the preseason rankings, only games played matter. No consideration is given for future games.

I re-rank the top 10 every Sunday from scratch. The previous week’s rankings do not factor into the next week. So, the rankings will change, sometimes drastically every week because we will have new information. So make sure to come back every Sunday.

Week 2 provided a lot more information about teams in the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 3 As it Should Be. However, highly regarded teams like Alabama, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Georgia have yet to face any stiff competition.

For reference you can check College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 2

College Football Top 10 Rankings Week 2:

Next Up: Oregon, Michigan, Utah, Florida

10. Michigan Wolverines (2-0)

Last Week: 24-21 OT (W) vs ARMY

Michigan is the Florida of the Big Ten. They should be a top team but have looked sloppy, undisciplined. The only reason the Wolverines are 2-0 is that they played Middle Tennessee State and Army. If Michigan plays like that versus any Big Ten opponents they will get absolutely run out of the building. I’m not sure whether to blame Shea Patterson or Jim Harbaugh for the offensive struggles. Either way, they better get it fixed fast because a game at Wisconsin is next up.

Check out our Pac-12 Football Podcast, Pac-12 Apostles:

9. Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Last Week: OPEN

Those who watched Notre Dame and Louisville past the 1st quarter got a good feel for how much fun their matchup with Georgia will be. The Fighting Irish defense is talented and disciplined. Ian Book looked about the same as he did last year. His best asset is his running ability, but he can make most of the throws and correct reads to make ND a top tier team.

8. Texas Longhorns (1-1)

Last Week: 38-45 (L) vs LSU

Texas had a shootout against LSU. The Longhorns offense was fantastic. I would have thought 38 points and 500 yards of offense with no turnovers would be enough to beat LSU. It was very clear in the game that we were watching two of 2019’s college football heavyweights. I am left with questions about a defense that gave up 45 points. Big 12 defenses often get a wrap for being swiss cheese with great offenses. But, maybe LSU’s offense is Big 12 worthy.

7. Georgia Bulldogs (2-0)

Last Week: 63-17 (W) vs Murray State

Why is Georgia at #7 despite being one of the most talented teams in the country? They haven’t played anybody. Their dominance gets high points but their schedule and lack of quality wins get them very few points. Next week won’t help much either. However, it’s not where you start, it’s where you finish. The Bulldogs will have plenty of opportunities to land in the coveted #1 spot of the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings.

6. Auburn (2-0)

Last Week: 24-6 (W) vs Tulane

Now that we have more information Auburn is ranked a lot closer to where they should be. Their schedule and quality win last week had them at #4. But, this was not the offensive performance the Tigers wanted to follow up their win against Oregon with. Bo Nix didn’t have a good day passing the ball, but they won. They have a glorified bye week against Kent State next week, but it should provide a confidence boost before they play Texas A&M the following week.

5. Ohio State Buckeyes (2-0)

Last Week: 42-0 (W) vs Cincinnatti

Cincinnati won 11 games last year so this was not a cupcake game for Ohio State. However, they steamrolled from the beginning to the end. The defense didn’t allow a single point. The Buckeyes are a scary team and look better than the team last year that finished the season one for the four best teams despite not making the playoffs. It is clear why they are rising in the College Football Top 10 Week 3 as it should be.

4. Oklahoma Sooners (1-0)

Last Week: 70-14 (W) vs South Dakota

Another week, another 700 yards of offense for Oklahoma. If the Sooners ever get a real defense, they will be unstoppable. Imagine how good life is for Lincon Riley that he gets Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and now Jalen Hurts at quarterback over the last three years. The team is fun to watch. They will probably continue to break scoreboards and offensive records all season.

3. Alabama Crimson Tide (2-0)

Last Week: 62-10 (W) vs New Mexico State

I am so frustrated by the Crimson Tide. They are so talented at every single position that I want to see them play quality competition. I feel like that as a college football fan I am being robbed of seeing greatness. I can’t imagine Alabama fans enjoyed watching their team play against one of the worst FBS teams in the country. Bama’s schedule is terrible and they have no quality wins, but damn are they dominant. I’m afraid that their lack of consistent competition will cause them to get knocked off in the SEC championship.

2. LSU (2-0)

Last Week: 45-38 (W) vs Texas

LSU went from unranked in week two to #2 of the College Football Top 10 Power Rankings Week 3. I am completely shocked. The Tigers look completely different offensively than we have seen in the last 20 years. They iced the game against Texas through the air instead of on the ground. Joe Burrow threw for 471 yards and four touchdowns. My only concern is the 530 yards and 38 points they gave up, but Texas is one of the better offenses in the nation. The game against Alabama will be competitive this year.

1. Clemson Tigers (2-0)

Last Week: 24-10 (W) vs Texas A&M

Clemson checked all three boxes this week. They got a quality win, their schedule so far is good, and they were absolutely dominant. The defense was like a boa constrictor wrapped around Texas A&M. Their squeeze just kept getting tighter and tighter with every quarter. Trevor Lawrence aka “Touchdown Jesus” played under control and led his team to a dominant victory. Barring an injury to Lawrence it looks like the Tigers are a shoo-in for the College Football Playoff top 4.