Editor’s Note: The Athletic 134 Rankings
The world of college football is a whirlwind of excitement, surprises, and fierce competition, and each week brings a fresh opportunity for teams to prove themselves. The Athletic 134 serves as a comprehensive weekly ranking of all FBS college football teams, providing fans and analysts alike with a clear picture of how teams stack up against one another. This week, the spotlight shines brightly on the BYU Cougars, who are making waves in the rankings.
BYU Cougars: A Team to Watch
As of now, the BYU Cougars stand undefeated at 7-0, a remarkable feat that deserves attention. They have not only maintained their perfect record but have also handed significant losses to formidable opponents like Kansas State and SMU. Despite these accomplishments, BYU finds itself outside the top 10 in both the AP and Coaches polls, a puzzling oversight given their performance. However, The Athletic 134 recognizes their efforts, placing them at an impressive No. 7 this week.
The Case for BYU
What makes BYU’s ranking even more surprising is the quality of their victories. Their wins against Kansas State and SMU are arguably stronger than the best wins of several teams ranked above them, including Iowa State. This discrepancy raises questions about the criteria used in other rankings and highlights the need for a closer examination of the Cougars’ performance. Their defense, currently ranked 13th in yards per play allowed, has been a cornerstone of their success, showcasing their ability to stifle opposing offenses.
Scheduling and Future Prospects
Another factor that could be influencing BYU’s ranking is their scheduling. The Cougars have played two games on Friday nights, and their significant victory over Kansas State occurred during a late Saturday night kickoff. These late-night games often fly under the radar, potentially leading to a lack of recognition. Additionally, while BYU has faced some close calls, such as their narrow win against Oklahoma State, the overall trajectory of their season suggests they are a legitimate contender.
Looking ahead, BYU’s schedule appears manageable. They will not face Iowa State during the regular season, and they have already secured victories against Kansas State and will not play against the 5-2 Colorado team. This positions BYU favorably in the race for a potential College Football Playoff spot, especially if the Big 12 can secure two teams in the playoff.
The Athletic 134 Rankings Breakdown
As we delve deeper into The Athletic 134 rankings, it’s clear that the landscape of college football is continually shifting. The top 10 features a mix of powerhouse programs and rising teams, with Georgia moving up to No. 2 after a significant win against Texas. Meanwhile, Texas has slipped to No. 6, reflecting the volatility of the rankings as teams jockey for position.
Miami has also made headlines by jumping ahead of Ohio State after a strong performance against Louisville. The upcoming matchup between Ohio State and Penn State is poised to be a pivotal moment that could further shake up the rankings. Tennessee and LSU have cracked the top 10, thanks to impressive wins, with Tennessee edging out LSU due to a stronger overall resume.
Notable Movements in the Rankings
As we move beyond the top 10, Indiana has made a significant leap to No. 11 after a dominant victory over Nebraska, despite concerns about their quarterback’s injury. Iowa State has slipped two spots, reflecting the competitive nature of the rankings as teams like Tennessee and LSU continue to impress.
Illinois has re-entered the top 25 after a solid win against Michigan, showcasing the ebb and flow of team performances throughout the season. Meanwhile, teams just outside the top 25 have faced challenges, leading to significant shifts in their rankings.
The Bottom Half of the Rankings
In the lower tiers of The Athletic 134, teams like USC and Rutgers have seen their fortunes decline, with USC dropping to No. 52 after a disappointing loss. Conversely, teams like Louisiana and Georgia Southern are making strides, with Louisiana climbing the ranks after a strong performance in the Sun Belt.
The rankings also highlight the struggles of traditional powerhouses like Florida State and Auburn, who find themselves in the lower half of the rankings after disappointing seasons. The competition remains fierce, and every game counts as teams strive to improve their standings.
Conclusion
The Athletic 134 rankings provide a fascinating glimpse into the current state of college football, showcasing the ups and downs of various programs. With BYU making a strong case for recognition and the rankings shifting week by week, fans can expect an exhilarating finish to the season. As teams continue to battle for supremacy, the excitement of college football remains as vibrant as ever.