Joel Klatt questions whether Washington should pass Florida State in CFP rankings
When looking at the College Football Playoff rankings, there are probably two tiers when it comes to the undefeated teams. Georgia, Michigan, and Ohio State all have cases for the No. 1 spot, while the Buckeyes currently hold it. Behind those three are Florida State and Washington, with both controlling their own destiny to being one of the final four teams.
In the latest rankings, Florida State is currently ranked ahead of Washington. However, if it were up to FOX’s Joel Klatt, he would have the Huskies a spot higher than the Seminoles. Especially after how they performed on Saturday at the Coliseum against USC.
“The way that Washington went out there and played last weekend in what was an unbelievable game against USC, I thought there might be some movement there,” Klatt said. “If you’re asking me, I think Florida State is probably, right now, the weakest of the undefeated.”
Florida State did not have their best game on Saturday against Pitt. Yes, two key players — Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson — were out with injuries. But it’s more than just the eye test for Klatt. He likes Washington when looking at the resume as well.
“I think Washington, at least with the Oregon win, probably better from a resume standpoint,” Klatt said. “It remains to be seen how it plays out, in particular, that conference. Meanwhile, Florida State — they have a very clear path to remain undefeated with their future schedule and winning the ACC. Which would put them in.”
Klatt’s opinion is just with how things stand at the moment. Looking into the future, it’s not hard to see why Florida State has the “cleanest path” to the College Football Playoff. Wins against LSU and Clemson are carrying the resume, while the schedule is not too difficult.
Winning the ACC and being undefeated means it will be nearly impossible for the committee to keep Florida State out. A Power Five champion usually gets in, no matter the scenario but having a zero in the loss column makes it a near guarantee.
Who knows, maybe down the road we will get to see Florida State and Washington battle it out on the field. Anything is possible in the College Football Playoff whether it’s the semifinal or national championship game.
Just heading into Week 11 of the season, Klatt likes what Washington has shown us on the field and from a resume standpoint a tad bit more.