Brett Yormark is not happy with the selection committee’s decision to rank Boise State so far ahead of his potential conference champions.
The Week 15 College Football Playoff rankings sparked significant debate online, with many criticizing the selection committee for its placement and seeding of teams within the 12-team bracket.
While some expressed discontent over No. 11 Alabama’s (9-3) inclusion, which seemingly marginalized other deserving bubble teams’ chances for a national title, others voiced their opinions regarding the projected conference champions and the first-round byes awarded.
Notably, Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark condemned the committee for ranking Boise State (11-1) above members of his conference, a decision that potentially cost them a first-round bye.
“The committee consistently shows that they prioritize logos over resumes,” Yormark told reporters on Wednesday (via The Athletic). “Strength of schedule should be relevant, and victories against Power 4 opponents should count.”
He’s not just criticizing three-loss Alabama, but also Boise State, which he believes hasn’t faced any significant competition aside from its lone defeat to the now-No. 1 Oregon (12-0).
Big 12 commissioner Yormark defends the resumes of ASU and Iowa State, especially with a first-round bye at stake in the conference championship game. He makes a valid point: Alabama, despite its three losses, is benefiting from its brand recognition to secure a spot in the bracket after losing to 6-6 Oklahoma over the weekend. Additionally, the Crimson Tide will not compete for the SEC title on Saturday.
“The committee clearly focuses on the win-loss record,” Yormark stated. “By that reasoning, no three-loss team from a Power 4 conference should receive a bye over a two-loss champion from the Big 12.”
While Boise State’s record might seem to justify a first-round bye, it’s less convincing compared to a Power 4 team.
“I obviously challenge what I’ve observed so far,” Yormark added. “However, I trust the committee will ultimately place us where we belong, which means the Big 12 will earn a bye that we deserve.”
According to ESPN’s metrics, Iowa State ranks 68th, ASU 72nd, and Boise State 86th in terms of strength of schedule. In terms of strength of record, Boise State is 13th, Iowa State 15th, and ASU 16th.
Therefore, while there isn’t much room for flexibility, it’s clear that the Big 12 champion should receive the same considerations for first-round byes as teams from the Big Ten, SEC, and ACC.
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