During the doldrums of the offseason, we often run across some interesting pieces that make you think about whether things are working or not. When it comes to college football, it’s clear that the best teams in the country on a yearly basis are separating themselves rather than being reeled in by others that are doing the chasing. It’s like the cop in Smokey and the Bandit. It’s a lost cause.
Enter a piece by Andy Staples of The Athletic. He has put proposed a super league of college football powerhouses (subscription required) that would make the SEC West and Big Ten East look like child’s play. He selected twelve teams he believes are primed to battle it out as a member of today’s arms race for college football supremacy. And while it would seemingly level the playing field within that group, you have to wonder what would happen with the other leagues that were left in the dust by these teams leaving.
But that’s for another day.
The teams Staples proposes to be a part of all this fun include Ohio State of course (can’t leave the all-time percentage winner out), but also a who’s who of college football lore — well sort of. We definitely have an issue with some of the teams that were identified here, but I guess if were counting has-beens and the days of leather helmets, some still qualify (we’re looking at you Michigan).
Regardless, here are the twelve teams:
The Athletic's @Andy_Staples imagined a College Football Super League.
Which schools got snubbed? pic.twitter.com/sWXuiYrrZ0
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 19, 2021
Here’s the way I see it. There are tiers to this thing. Here are the teams that should be in regardless because of the domination they’ve been on throughout history, including today:
- Alabama
- Ohio State
- Oklahoma
- Notre Dame
Then, there’s the new money. Teams that have become behemoths in recent years and make sense to be included (though it’s close with Oregon):
- Clemson
- Oregon
- Florida
Then, there’s the has been teams. These teams just don’t cut it any longer and we could probably find a more suitable replacement unless we’re living in the past:
- Nebraska
- Michigan
There are three teams that I question on both accounts because they tend to be so up and down. I could take them or leave them.
- LSU
- Auburn
- Georgia
There are clearly some snubs here. I could easily replace the above three and do without the continued bias with the SEC. The following teams should be considered and probably included.
- Penn State
- Texas
- USC
I mean, if we’re truly going by blue bloods, you can’t leave Texas and USC off the list. No way, no how. But that’s just me, and this is all clearly opinion and speculation.
What teams would you include in a super league? Do you agree with any of the above, or is there another program that’s clearly missing. Maybe Wisconsin? Tennessee?
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