Not really. As an LSU fan, I don’t think there’s any way LSU is “deserving” of being #10. But I thought if Tennessee was #1, they’d probably be close to that based on ranking the “best” teams. Tennessee dominated LSU—at LSU—and they did it a week before LSU figured it out with very impressive wins over Florida in the Swamp at night and an undefeated Ole Miss team. You can argue LSU is currently one of the 10 “best” teams in CFB. Which would give Tennessee 2 wins over top 10 teams to justify Tennessee at #1.

But it’s a chicken/egg thing. Do they really like LSU—and have, undeservingly imo, thrown out the FSU game because it was the 1st game of the season with a brand new coaching staff and completely different roster (which I don’t think they should—the game happened and happened in New Orleans)—which gives Tennessee’s win over them at LSU combined with their win over Bama the best 2 wins of the season.

Or, do they really love Tennessee and can excuse LSU that loss at home because they think Tennessee is so good and LSU lost their starting LT before the game and their LG on the 1st series?

Again, I don’t think any of that should matter. The hubris of thinking they “know” who’s “best” is the wrong way to pick the final 4 imo. It should be “deserving.” Much more objective.

I loved the BCS formula because it took the eyeball test more out of it, and the more “deserving” teams made it. I hate the playoff formula now with the committee because every week CFB proves nobody “knows” who’s “better.” That’s why they play the games. I’m all for the expanded playoff now, because you can actually earn your way into it. Conference championships should matter. And even though you can make it without winning, getting those top 4 seeds and the 1st round bye is a huge advantage and preserves the sanctity of the regular season (which as always my big concern). I still think the quarters should be played at the higher seeds’ home stadium to make it matter even more, but I don’t think the traditional bowls will allow that.