Greg McElroy Believes Alabama’s Best Path to the College Football Playoff Lies in Comparison with the ACC

Alabama Faces a Tough Challenge

After Alabama suffered its third loss of the season against Oklahoma, many believe their hopes for a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) are all but over. The road to the SEC Championship appears closed, and earning an at-large bid seems nearly impossible. However, ESPN’s Greg McElroy still sees a plausible pathway for the Crimson Tide to secure one of the 12 playoff spots.

Comparison with the ACC: The Key to Finding a Path

McElroy argues that Alabama’s best chance hinges on the selection committee comparing their résumé with the runner-up in the ACC. He stated, “I think their best opportunity is for the committee to take Alabama’s résumé and compare it to the second-place team in the ACC.” According to McElroy, the committee might favor SMU or Miami if they finish 11-2, while Alabama could end with a 9-3 record if they win this weekend.

These comments come ahead of the latest CFP rankings, which will be released on Tuesday. There’s a possibility the committee will rank Alabama low enough to eliminate them from contention, even with unexpected upsets like Vanderbilt beating Tennessee. McElroy also noted that Texas A&M might be out of the picture after their loss to Texas. Nevertheless, he maintains that comparisons with the ACC could be the deciding factor.

The ACC Picture

SMU has already secured a spot in the ACC Championship Game. Either Miami or Clemson will join them in Charlotte, provided Miami defeats Syracuse in their season finale. If Miami loses, Clemson could once again claim a shot at the title in a conference they have dominated in recent years.

Quality Wins Could Boost Alabama

McElroy outlined a scenario where the ACC runner-up ends up with multiple losses, but Alabama’s résumé, featuring higher-quality wins, could stand out. The key will be how the selection committee evaluates Alabama’s overall body of work. A critical victory over Auburn could strengthen their case in this scenario.

A 12-team playoff format significantly broadens the field of contenders for the national championship. Quality wins against teams like Georgia and South Carolina could give Alabama a major advantage in the race for a playoff berth.

Despite the challenges Alabama faces, Greg McElroy believes a path to the College Football Playoff remains open. Comparisons with teams in the ACC may be the crucial factor in their success. With key victories and a well-executed strategy, Alabama could still have a chance to make a deep run this season.