Hurricanes Fall in Rankings Following Upset Loss to SMU
The Miami Hurricanes experienced a significant drop in the rankings after their unexpected defeat to Southern Methodist University (SMU) on Saturday. Previously sitting comfortably in the top 10, Miami now finds itself at No. 18 in the Associated Press (AP) poll and the USA Today coaches poll. The team has also fallen out of the FWAA-NFF Super 16 entirely. Once ranked as high as No. 2 this season, Miami will have to wait until Tuesday evening to learn its standing from the College Football Playoff committee, which plays a crucial role in determining postseason opportunities.
The loss to SMU added to a chaotic weekend for the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). In addition to Miami’s defeat, Georgia Tech, previously undefeated and ranked eighth, also suffered a setback. This leaves the No. 12 Virginia Cavaliers as the top-ranked team from the conference. Currently, the ACC boasts four ranked teams: Virginia, Louisville, Georgia Tech, and Miami.
Miami’s remaining schedule does not include any ranked opponents, although its final matchup of the year will feature a team that received votes in the polls. SMU’s victory over Miami has also improved its own standing within the rankings, as the team has gained recognition in the voting process.
As the season progresses, the implications of Miami’s recent performance will be closely monitored. The team’s current position in the polls reflects the highly competitive nature of college football this season.
Here is the complete AP poll:
1. Ohio State
2. Indiana
3. Texas A&M
4. Alabama
5. Georgia
6. Oregon
7. Ole Miss
8. BYU
9. Texas Tech
10. Notre Dame
11. Oklahoma
12. Virginia
13. Texas
14. Louisville
15. Vanderbilt
16. Georgia Tech
17. Utah
18. Miami
19. Missouri
20. USC
21. Michigan
22. Memphis
23. Tennessee
24. Washington
25. Cincinnati
The Hurricanes will need to regroup quickly to maintain hopes for a successful end to their season. With the College Football Playoff committee’s ranking looming, Miami’s performance in the coming weeks will be pivotal for its postseason aspirations.
