SMU Clinches Final Playoff Spot Over Alabama

In a controversial decision, the College Football Playoff (CFP) committee selected SMU for the final at-large spot in the inaugural 12-team playoff, leaving Alabama out despite its three top-25 victories. ESPN's Paul Finebaum criticized the committee's decision, suggesting it was an emotional reaction to SMU's performance in the ACC Championship Game. He argued that while Alabama had a stronger schedule, their late-season losses ultimately cost them a playoff berth. The inclusion of SMU, which finished the season 11-2, was seen as an effort to maintain the integrity of conference championships, especially after last year's backlash against the committee for excluding undefeated Florida State. Finebaum pointed out that Alabama's failure to secure a spot was largely self-inflicted and a reflection of the flawed playoff system. Ultimately, the selection underscores the ongoing challenges and debates surrounding playoff fairness in college football.