Preseason rankings in college football have sparked a heated debate, with many questioning their relevance. But here's the thing: Kirk Herbstreit, the renowned commentator and College GameDay panelist, has stepped up to defend these rankings, offering a unique perspective that might just change your mind.
The Preseason Hype Machine
Herbstreit believes that preseason rankings are an essential part of building excitement for the upcoming season. For fans like him, who eagerly await the start of the football season, these rankings provide a much-needed fix during the off-season. He compares it to his love for baseball, where the season often ends before the Fourth of July, leaving him craving news and something to discuss.
"I'm a fan of preseason rankings," Herbstreit said. "They get us excited about college football. It's like a preview of the main event, a teaser to whet our appetite."
But here's where it gets controversial: Herbstreit argues that these rankings have no real impact once the games begin. He claims that by the time five weeks of football have passed, the preseason polls are long forgotten.
The Fluid Nature of College Football
Herbstreit further explains that college football is a dynamic sport, where teams can surprise or disappoint. He uses the examples of Penn State and BYU, whose rankings changed drastically throughout the season.
"I watch football every week, and my opinions change. Teams can exceed or fall short of expectations. Penn State and BYU are perfect examples of this. Their preseason rankings didn't hold up, and that's okay. We adjust our views based on what we see on the field."
He goes on to say that the committee responsible for rankings likely doesn't get caught up in preseason polls, especially after several weeks of actual gameplay.
The Real Purpose of Preseason Rankings
So, what's the point of preseason rankings if they don't accurately predict the season's outcome? According to Herbstreit, they serve as a discussion point and a way to generate early interest in college football. He points out that since 2000, only two preseason No. 1 teams have gone on to win the National Championship, highlighting the unpredictability of the sport.
"Preseason ranks are for nothing but discussion and creating a buzz early on. They're a fun way to speculate and engage with other fans."
And this is the part most people miss: preseason rankings are a reflection of the unknown, a glimpse into the future that can either be proven right or wrong. It's a reminder that in college football, anything can happen.
What do you think? Are preseason rankings a necessary evil, or an unnecessary distraction? Let us know in the comments!
