Heading into conference championship weekend, there is a new #1 team in our power ratings: The 11-1 Oregon Ducks have supplanted the Michigan Wolverines as the best football team in the nation, peaking at the right time as the College Football Playoff looms.
Before the Ducks can reserve a slot in the semifinals, they must contend with the undefeated Washington Huskies, who won a dramatic matchup earlier this season. But according to the ratings here, count on Oregon to avenge that tough loss and lock up a spot in the Final Four…and subsequently be our favorite to win it all in January.
Another undefeated CFP contender, Florida State, is not highly esteemed by the modeling systems employed here, ranking #10…and that does not account for the injury to star QB Jordan Travis. Louisville emerging as ACC Champion would not be a big surprise and probably ensure better semifinal matchups in the CFP.
For a score prediction between two teams, compute the difference between their power ratings, and add 2.3 for home field advantage.
A rating of zero indicates an average FBS team.
