As we gear up for the final College Football Playoff in the existing four-team setup, the anticipation for the forthcoming 12-team format in 2024 looms large. The imminent shift marks the end of an intriguing era in the sport’s history. Reflecting on the past, it becomes evident that not all playoff fields are created equal.
Ranking the College Football Playoff Fields
In this retrospective, we’ll rank each College Football Playoff iteration, focusing on the strength of the featured quartet. We consider essential factors like the caliber of players and coaches, overall parity, and individual team résumés. Notably, the results of each year’s semifinals and national championship games are not influencing these rankings, although they may be mentioned for context.
1. 2019-20: The LSU Dominance
The Field: 1. LSU, 2. Ohio State, 3. Clemson, 4. Oklahoma
The 2019-20 season saw LSU steal the spotlight with a record-shattering offense led by quarterback Joe Burrow. A powerhouse field featuring Burrow, Trevor Lawrence, and Justin Fields, all future first-round NFL picks, made this one of the most competitive playoffs.
2. 2017-18: Parity Prevails
The Field: 1. Clemson, 2. Oklahoma, 3. Georgia, 4. Alabama
In a year without an undefeated team, parity reigned supreme. With all four teams experiencing losses in the regular season, the field showcased a balance of strengths and challenges, making it an exceptional year for competitiveness.
3. 2023-24: The Current Battle
The Field: 1. Michigan, 2. Washington, 3. Texas, 4. Alabama
Despite controversy surrounding Florida State’s exclusion, the 2023-24 lineup promises the most competitive showdown. Undefeated conference champions, talented quarterbacks, and evenly matched teams set the stage for a captivating farewell to the four-team era.
4. 2014-15: Inaugural Excellence
The Field: 1. Alabama, 2. Oregon, 3. Florida State, 4. Ohio State
While not the best, the inaugural playoff was exceptional. Featuring elite quarterbacks, star-studded coaching staffs, and future NFL talent, it laid the foundation for the playoff excitement we know today.
5. 2018-19: Dominance Defined
The Field: 1. Alabama, 2. Clemson, 3. Notre Dame, 4. Oklahoma
A year marked by dominant performances, 2018-19 showcased Clemson and Alabama as clear favorites. While having powerhouse teams is exciting, it made the playoff feel like a two-team race, slightly diminishing the overall competitiveness.
6. 2021-22: Non-Traditional Excellence
The Field: 1. Alabama, 2. Michigan, 3. Georgia, 4. Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s underrated excellence and Georgia’s historic defense highlighted the 2021-22 season. While non-traditional teams brought a fresh perspective, the dominance of Alabama and Georgia hinted at a predictable outcome.
7. 2022-23: TCU’s Shining Moment
The Field: 1. Georgia, 2. Michigan, 3. TCU, 4. Ohio State
TCU’s upset victory and individual accolades brought a unique flavor to the 2022-23 season. However, Ohio State’s weak performance and unconventional entry raised questions about the overall strength of the field.
Read also:- A Comprehensive Review of the Dolphins vs. Titans Monday Night Football Showdown
8. 2015-16: Star Power Galore
The Field: 1. Clemson, 2. Alabama, 3. Michigan State, 4. Oklahoma
While Clemson was the only undefeated team, the star power in this field elevated its status. Quarterbacks like Deshaun Watson, Marcus Mariota, and Baker Mayfield, along with future NFL talents, added an extra layer of excitement.
9. 2016-17: A Notable Absence
The Field: 1. Alabama, 2. Clemson, 3. Ohio State, 4. Washington
The absence of a Heisman Trophy winner made the 2016-17 playoff stand out. Despite strong teams in Alabama and Clemson, Ohio State and Washington’s weaker credentials affected the overall competitiveness.
10. 2020-21: Pandemic Disruption
The Field: 1. Alabama, 2. Clemson, 3. Ohio State, 4. Notre Dame
The 2020-21 season faced unique challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, impacting team schedules and dynamics. While Alabama’s dominance was clear, the irregular circumstances make it challenging to assess this playoff on the same scale as others.
In conclusion, each College Football Playoff has brought its own flavor of excitement and challenges. As we bid farewell to the four-team era, the promise of a 12-team format adds a new dimension to the future of collegiate football.
