It has been a few weeks since I gave a top 25 write-up. Since that time there have been numerous upsets: We have seen USC, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Auburn, LSU, South Florida, and many other teams falter.
As of right now, no more than three BCS conference teams will run the table (and really, I think Penn State is the only team with a good shot at doing so). This is shaping up to be a college football season very similar to last season.
For a hypothetical, what happens if everyone has two losses except an unbeaten Penn State and an unbeaten BYU? Does BYU get a shot at the National Title? Will that scenario convince the major conference that a playoff is indeed necessary?
1. Texas
If you beat number one, you have probably earned your spot at the top of the rankings. Colt McCoy should be the early Heisman trophy favorite. Yesterday against Oklahoma he completed 80 percent of his passes, took care of the football, and rallied the Longhorns from 11 down.
I do not think Texas can make it through a very difficult upcoming stretch unscathed. I think eventually their suspect passing defense will catch up to them, but this team has to be the favorite to win the Big 12 South right now and could definitely be in the national title game.
2. Alabama
They may have a more complete resume than Texas at this point in the season. The Crimson Tide defense has been absolutely killing opponents this season.
The more I look at Alabama’s schedule, the more I think they could make it to the SEC Championship without a loss. Every week is tough in the SEC, no doubt about that, but I am not sure the SEC is as dominant as we all thought it was going to be.
Tennessee, Auburn, and Mississippi State are all games the Tide should win. Next week against a pesky Ole Miss is a big test, and then there is the trip down to LSU on Nov. 8. I still do not think Alabama will run the table, but their schedule really does set up nicely for them down the stretch.
3. Penn State
Is Penn State the third best team in the country? I do not know. I do think Penn State is the major conference team most likely to run the table and reach the national title game. The game at Ohio State in two weeks promises to be enormous and likely will decide the Big Ten.
I know Penn State has had problems beating Michigan in recent years, but something tells me that game is going to get ugly next week. Penn State was incredibly impressive against Oregon State and Wisconsin and looked very impressive against Illinois as well. If Penn State runs the table and makes the National Title game, it will be well earned.
4. Oklahoma
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