Air Force football starts at No. 25 in College Football Playoff rankings, requiring further effort

Air Force has been ranked 25th in the initial College Football Playoff rankings, but will need to overcome Tulane to secure a spot in a lucrative New Year's Six Bowl.

In the initial College Football Playoff rankings of the season, Air Force has made its debut at No. 25. This is the first time in the 10-year history of the rankings that Air Force has been included. However, the Falcons and the Mountain West may not be satisfied with their position.

To secure the coveted Group of Five spot in a lucrative New Year's Six Bowl, Air Force (8-0) will need to surpass Tulane (7-1), who currently sits at No. 24. Former Army athletic director Boo Corrigan, speaking on behalf of the CFP, explained that the difference between Air Force and Tulane came down to their top victories. Tulane's 31-21 win over Memphis, ranked No. 61 in the Sagarin computer rankings, was considered more impressive than Air Force's 34-27 victory over Wyoming, ranked No. 83 according to Sagarin.

Corrigan praised Air Force's performance, highlighting their nation-leading rushing offense and strong defense. However, the committee ultimately valued Tulane's win over Memphis and overall strength of schedule, resulting in their higher ranking.

The rankings are not set in stone and can change as the season progresses. Tulane's remaining schedule includes games against East Carolina, Tulsa, Florida Atlantic, UTSA, and the American Athletic Conference championship game. Air Force's remaining schedule includes matchups against Army, Hawaii, UNLV, Boise State, and potentially the Mountain West championship game if they continue to remain unbeaten.

Corrigan also mentioned that the committee took into account the fact that Memphis was without its quarterback in their lone loss to then-No. 11 Mississippi.

The current top four teams in the rankings are Ohio State at No. 1, Georgia at No. 2, Michigan at No. 3, and Florida State at No. 4. Washington and Oregon are the first teams out of a four-team playoff if the season were to end now.

It's important to note that the Falcons are ranked No. 17 in The Associated Press and coaches' polls, but these outside polls are not considered in the committee's discussions. The committee focuses on factors such as records, strength of schedule, head-to-head matchups, and results against common opponents.

Despite the release of the rankings, the Falcons appeared disinterested in the topic. Offensive tackle Adam Karas revealed that he had deleted his social media prior to the season to focus on school and football, and was unaware that the CFP rankings were being released. Coach Troy Calhoun also expressed his lack of interest, stating that he will instead focus on academic progress and practice performance.

Overall, the initial College Football Playoff rankings have placed Air Force at No. 25, but there is still room for movement as the season progresses. The Falcons will need to continue their strong performance and potentially surpass Tulane to secure their spot in a New Year's Six Bowl.

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