The Irreplaceable Value of an Undefeated Wisconsin Badgers in the CFP
The 2017 Wisconsin Badgers football team had a remarkable season, and the discussion about their inclusion in the College Football Playoff (CFP) deserves more than just a passing thought. As an alum, the idea of leaving an undefeated Big Ten team out of the CFP is deeply troubling. This article will delve into the reasons why the Wisconsin Badgers should be considered unequivocally for a spot in the CFP, along with an analysis of the current landscape and potential scenarios.
Current Standings and Predictions
Currently, the Coaches Poll has the Badgers at No. 3, while some algorithms have them ranked as high as No. 9. Given the likely outcomes of several upcoming conference finals, it's clear that one or more of the remaining opponents (Clemson/Miami, Oklahoma/TCU, or Alabama/Georgia) are poised to lose. Additionally, Notre Dame's games against Stanford and Miami present potential pitfalls for their ranking. A loss in either of these games might see them fall out of contention entirely.
It's troubling to think that a clean 12-0 record might not be sufficient, especially considering the results of the upcoming conference finals and specific games against Miami away from home. This highlights the critical nature of every game left for Wisconsin, as losing any could mean missing out on a spot in the CFP despite a perfect regular season.
The AP Poll and Beyond
On November 5, the AP Poll saw Wisconsin drop two spots, despite a 28-point win. This drop underscores the potential volatility in rankings. Oklahoma, Clemson, and Notre Dame each advanced two spots, which points to the current tight race. The CFP poll, yet to be released, is likely to mirror similar trends.
This fluctuation in rankings is significant for Wisconsin, as it shows that solely running the table might not be enough if the results of several key games do not go their way. This adds to the pressure on the Badgers and highlights the importance of each remaining game.
Arguments for Including Wisconsin in the CFP
Any team in the "big five" NCAA football conferences that can go undefeated should be considered one of the four teams in the CFP. In 2017, Wisconsin did not deliberately avoid tough competition by scheduling FCS opponents. The Big Ten West division is one of the weaker divisions in the Power 5, but it would be unfair to explicitly punish the Badgers for this.
Wisconsin's undefeated record in conference play is a significant accomplishment. Teams and coaches play each other year after year, and winning every game is a great feat. If the Badgers achieve an undefeated record, it will mean they have also defeated the Big Ten East division winner, a tough opponent for any college football team.
Conversely, it's not that a close loss to a good team is better than a win over a bad team. Wins should always be favored over losses. The 2017-18 College Football Playoff is guaranteed to feature teams with at least one loss, and unless extraordinary circumstances arise, a one-loss team should not be ranked above an undefeated team, especially when both teams play in Power 5 conferences.
The Impact and Significance of the Decision
Leaving an unbeaten Big Ten team out of the CFP would have a larger impact than simply disappointing Wisconsin fans. The current sentiment in the nation is that the SEC and Notre Dame are overrepresented in the CFP, leading to a sense of imbalance and unfairness. Punishing the Big Ten by not including the Badgers could further exacerbate these feelings.
It's crucial for the selection committee to consider the broader context and the impressive accomplishment of the Wisconsin Badgers. Their performance should not be undervalued or overlooked, as it represents a significant achievement in college football that deserves recognition and inclusion in the CFP.
Conclusion: The 2017 Wisconsin Badgers football team not only deserve, but require, a spot in the College Football Playoff. Their undefeated record, achievements, and the challenging competition they faced make their inclusion essential. The impact of leaving them out would be felt beyond Wisconsin, and it would be a disservice to the sport and the nation as a whole.