Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
SALT LAKE CITY — Parity is a great thing for college football.
Many have argued that the transfer portal has ruined college sports, but I'd contend that a season like 2024 is why that notion is wrong. The competitive balance in the sport is leveling a bit, and every week feels like chaos.
At least for this season, there's not an inevitable team that appears destined for a national title. The usual suspect (mostly) are still hovering around the top, but nothing is a guarantee in the first year of the 12-team playoff.
That was most evident on Saturday when eight teams ranked inside the Associated Press Top 25 rankings lost, including Alabama and Ole Miss.
The following is the ballot I submitted to the Associated Press that will be counted in the consensus rankings that will be released Sunday afternoon.
1. Oregon (11-0)
It was a perfect weekend for a bye for the No. 1 team in the country.
2. Ohio State (10-1)
Ohio State proved itself worthy in what was a tough matchup against an undefeated Indiana team. The Buckeyes started out a bit slow in the first half, but separated in the second in a 23-point win. Consistency remains key for Ohio State down the stretch, though.
3. Texas (10-1)
Texas made early work of a Kentucky team that has proved dangerous at times this season, and controlled a 17-point halftime lead that stayed. The Longhorns are in control of the SEC in their first season.
4. Notre Dame (10-1)
Notre Dame didn't care that Army was undefeated. In fact, the Fighting Irish showed that the undefeated run by Army was likely what everyone thought: a nice story but one that didn't ultimately pass the sniff test with an incredibly weak strength of schedule. The Fighting Irish are trending at the right time and worthy of a top-five billing.
5. Penn State (10-1)
The Nittany Lions eked out a close win against a physical Minnesota team to stay in contention for a Big Ten championship berth. There's not a ton to complain about with Penn State, but there's been two better teams in the conference this season.
6. Georgia (9-2)
What is there to learn from a 59-21 win over UMass? Not a lot; however, the Minutemen managed 226 rushing yards against Georgia's defense, which doesn't bode well for the Bulldogs moving forward.
7. Miami (10-1)
Cam Ward and Miami did what they needed to against a down Wake Forest team. The game was relatively close in the first half before Miami exploded in the fourth quarter with 22 points to seal the win. This week wasn't one of those live-life-on-the-edge wins, at least.
8. Indiana (10-1)
The fantastic undefeated run came to an end. And though the resume has been called into question (and mostly for good reason), the Hoosiers still have a lot in front of them of it. They're not better than Ohio State, but few teams ever are.
9. Tennessee (9-2)
A 56-0 win over UTEP. Next ...
10. Boise State (10-1)
Boise State has been living life on the edge a bit this season, but the Broncos continue to find ways to get a win in the end. A road environment to Laramie in November is never an easy task, but Ashton Jeanty is the difference maker. He's largely responsible for the special season, but they're likely going to need more from the surrounding cast to maintain their hold at the top of the Mountain West.
Dropping out: Washington State
Checking in: Kansas State
In consideration (alphabetical): Duke, Louisville, Memphis, Missouri, Syracuse
If you can't see my full ballot below, click here.
