Ballot Type: Human

Submitted: Dec. 3, 2023, 12:19 p.m.

Overall Rationale: An undefeated P5 champ belongs in the CFP this year. Period. I do feel that Alabama, Georgia, and OSU could beat some of the teams ahead of them, but I've always felt that the CFP should be more about "who deserves to be there?" or "who has earned the privilege to be there?" One of the beautiful things about sports is that the "best" team doesn't always win. The best team might not even be competing for the championship. That's how the cards play out sometimes. If it wasn't, then there would be no such thing as upsets or Cinderella runs. The teams that should be competing for a championship, however, are the ones that win their games. A 0-loss P5 champ should be in the playoffs - no question. No disrespect to Alabama - they have had a hell of a season, the GOAT coach, and took down the two-time defending champs. Any other year, and I'd say the SEC champ (whose only loss was to the current #3 in Week 2) should be in. But not this year. I would have put the 3 undefeated P5s in, with Texas in as well since they have the H2H. Regardless, I'm glad the 12 team playoff is on the way. Years like 2023 are rare, but they're why we need the expanded playoffs. Also, shoutout to all the neutrals that rooted for Alabama because you thought it would mean the SEC would miss the playoffs. Gaze into the abyss and reflect upon where your sins have brought us.

• Ballot
• Analysis