How To Figure Out Who Is Really The Best

I love college football debate almost as much as college football itself.  Every year there are teams that get “snubbed” and not invited to the BCS, and every year there are teams that coast in “undeservedly”

The talking points are numerous and the arguments endless, how can we ever sort out this beautiful mess?

Well short of waiting until the season is over (I know its crazy talk), the best way to decide these arguments is to ask other people.  I know it seems simple enough but here are the guidelines.

1)    You must be in a heated argument with one of your buddies, or even better someone you detest (see best friend)

2)    While not necessary I think there should be alcohol involved, no great debate was ever won through pure logic and stats, there has to be a bravado and small amount of exaggeration that only tall boys can provide.

3)    This is the most important part: find someone that likes college ball but doesn’t really care about either team in the debate.

4)    Finally ask them which of the two teams they would rather have their team play. 

5)    Repeat as often as necessary, which may be a while depending on how closely you adhered to guideline #2

Barring any real hatred for either team you will find which team is scarier, more talented, and overall better.

You ask, isn’t this just going to be more groupthink and perception rather than a well decided opinion? The answer in short is yes, but if you dive deeper into the situation you see that it is.... well... yes. 

The honest answer is that if two teams do not play, you have to go on perception and speculation.  Teams get labeled based on past performances and deservedly or not there does become a persona that develops.  People tell me that Ohio State cannot win a BCS bowl game, to which I reply, no sh*t.   It is a tough point to debate until they actually do win a BCS game.

Now if the teams in question are going to meet later in the season, just wait…this very powerful tool is reserved for fantasy match-ups only.  One example would be Boise St. VS anyone in the NCG (Sorry Boise fans) or Florida VS any out of state OOC opponent (we know they like the sun). Anyone wanting to burn me, I am a buckeye fan so that should be enough ammo to take me down. 

Bottom line, your team is what they were last year until they prove otherwise.  When they do prove otherwise, the national perception will change and the answers you get from strangers in the bar will continue to be as accurate as ever.

If you feel this system seems too flimsy or has too many loopholes I estimate that college football is not for you… I hear they have a pro league that is also supposed to be very good.