The fourth BCS rankings were released this evening, and they open up just as everyone would expect: LSU at No.1 and Oklahoma State at No. 2.
Then things get a little strange.
Despite dropping the 'Game of the Century' (which left me asleep on the couch by halftime), the Alabama Crimson Tide fell to the No. 3 spot, a mere .0087 ahead of the No. 4 Stanford Cardinal.
Now, because this is a Stanford blog, and because I am a Stanford student, take what I am about to say with a grain of salt, because I can't even deny my own bias.
I am just as confused as the majority of the Stanford student body is, and I'll break said confusion down into two parts:
1. How did Stanford register a 25 point win, yet still drop in the computer rankings? Answer: Oregon State must really be that bad. What a shame.
2. How can a one-loss team remain in contention for the BCS National Championship when there are several other undefeated teams remaining in FBS play?
Ultimately, this one comes down philosophy. I am of the opinion (and, believe it or not, this has more to do with Boise State than it does my own Stanford Cardinal), that the BCSNC should be a contest of two undefeated teams (if that is an option). Regardless of strength of schedule, I think people fail to realize just how difficult it is to maintain a high enough level of play to keep the loss column clean through 12 or 13 games.
At the same time though, the fact that the LSU v Alabama match-up was so close should qualify the Crimson Tide for at least the potential for a rematch (though, to be honest, I'm not sure I would want to watch that game all over again).
In any case, it is important for Cardinal fans to understand that a win against Oregon next week should be enough to float the team past Alabama in the rankings.
Until then, take solace in the Coaches Poll, which has the Card at No. 2, and prepare yourself for a big game, because next Saturday will decide it all.
Check back here throughout the week as I attempt to prep you all for the College Football Gameday showdown against No. 7 Oregon
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