Podcast Summary: Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron Episode: Who Should Be in the CFP Release Date: December 8, 2024

Introduction to Selection Sunday and the 12-Team Playoff

In this episode of Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron, hosts Matt Jones and Myron Metcalf delve into the intricacies of the College Football Playoff (CFP) selections. With the introduction of a 12-team playoff system, the hosts explore the potential implications, controversies, and standout teams vying for a coveted spot.

"Myron Metcalf: It really feels like the real thing. Is Alabama actually going to be left out?" (04:30)

Key Contenders and Performance Analysis

The discussion begins with an analysis of top-performing teams such as Georgia, Oregon, and SMU. The hosts examine Oregon's undefeated regular season and Georgia's overtime victory, highlighting their strengths and the challenges they may face in the playoff.

"Myron Metcalf: If you pick SMU, there are going to be haters who say you don't have to schedule a strong slate to get into the playoff." (02:15)

The SMU vs. Alabama Debate

A significant portion of the episode centers on the contentious debate over whether SMU or Alabama deserves a playoff berth. Despite SMU's narrow loss in the ACC championship game, questions arise about their overall strength and the impact of their defeat on the CFP standings. Conversely, Alabama's brand recognition and consistent performance are scrutinized, especially after their surprising losses to Vanderbilt and Oklahoma.

"Marc Kesterscher: When I say Alabama, I have a hard time imagining Alabama actually being left out." (03:00)

"Myron Metcalf: It feels a little bit like almost like the Grammys, Gabe. It's like Bama's Taylor Swift versus SMU's Shabuzy." (03:15)

Committee Standards and Future Implications

The hosts debate the CFP committee's criteria, questioning whether the current standards adequately reflect team performances or if they are swayed by brand prestige. They express concerns about the potential long-term effects of this decision on future playoff selections and the overall integrity of the CFP system.

"Marc Kesterscher: This is really the only one that matters. Is Alabama actually going to be left out?" (03:30)

"Myron Metcalf: If you choose to penalize conference championship losses, it sends a dangerous message to teams going forward." (05:27)

Insights from SMU's Head Coach Rhett Lashley

Rhett Lashley, SMU's head coach, is featured discussing his team's exclusion. He passionately asserts that SMU deserves a spot in the CFP despite their loss, emphasizing the team's performance and the significance of their participation in the championship game.

"Rhett Lashley: It'd be criminal if we're not in. It'd be wrong on so many levels." (05:43)

Caller Perspectives and Community Opinions

Throughout the episode, callers share their viewpoints, adding depth to the conversation. One caller, Peyton from Arizona, argues against Alabama's inclusion due to their recent losses and questions the consistency of the CFP committee's decisions.

"Peyton: If Alabama gets in, that is kind of crazy, just due to the fact that they have three losses." (16:05)

Another caller, Rob from South Carolina, highlights the inconsistent application of criteria, pointing out that Florida State was excluded even after injury setbacks.

"Rob: They pick and choose whether it's eye test for some teams or it's resume for some teams. It's not consistent." (18:32)

Future of the CFP and Potential Expansion

The hosts speculate on the future of the CFP, considering the possibility of expanding to 16 teams if controversies like excluding Alabama persist. They discuss how such changes could alter the landscape of college football, ensuring that all major conferences remain competitive and relevant.

"Myron Metcalf: If Alabama's out, we're going to 16 like tonight. You know what I mean?" (31:10)

"Jordan: Let's just put Alabama and have a 16 team playoff next year because you know how the SEC is." (31:06)

Concluding Thoughts and Final Predictions

As the episode wraps up, Matt and Myron offer their final predictions on the CFP selections. They express skepticism about certain teams' qualifications and reaffirm their belief in the committee's ability to make informed decisions, while also remaining open to potential upsets and surprises in the playoff rankings.

"Marc Kesterscher: How do we deal with this? And the one thing they have to balance is keeping conference championships relevant." (08:05)

Notable Quotes

• Myron Metcalf (02:03): "If you pick SMU, they're gonna be a whole bunch of haters who say you don't have to schedule a strong slate to get into the playoff."

• Marc Kesterscher (03:30): "The committee, whatever they do this year will affect, I think, teams in the future as well."

• Rhett Lashley (05:43): "It'd be criminal if we're not in. It'd be wrong on so many levels."

• Peyton (16:05): "If Alabama gets in, that is kind of crazy, just due to the fact that they have three losses."

• Jordan (31:06): "Let's just put Alabama and have a 16 team playoff next year because you know how the SEC is."

Conclusion

This episode of Sunday Mornings with Matt and Myron offers a comprehensive examination of the CFP selection process, highlighting the complexities and debates surrounding team inclusions. Through expert analysis, passionate opinions, and engaging discussions, Matt and Myron provide listeners with a thorough understanding of the factors influencing the College Football Playoff and its future trajectory.