The network likes Michigan (and Notre Dame). Despite each team’s one loss, their cumulative wins overcome the cost of the loss (in both cases to an undefeated team) and keep them not only in the top 4, but above their victors. In Michigan/Michigan State’s case (and Ohio State), this will wash out as Big Ten play progresses, but for now, the Wolverines only drop one spot after their loss to Sparty (who gains 5).
Big gain for BYU, but not driven entirely by their win over 6-3 UVA. Utah’s defeat of UCLA and Washington State’s win over Arizona State both also help BYU climb the rankings.
Mirroring in some ways the CFP initial ranking this week, the undefeated non-power 5 teams are starting to slip given their weak schedules, unable to keep up with others in accumulating evidence of their “goodness.”
Top 25 (Explanation; Full Ranking)
Georgia (nc)
Notre Dame (+2)
Michigan (-1)
Cincinnati (-1)
Michigan State (+5)
Oklahoma (nc)
Wake Forest (-2)
UTSA (-1)
Baylor (+4)
Ohio State (+5)
Oklahoma State (+1)
Alabama (+5)
Oregon (+5)
Iowa (+2)
Ole Miss (-1)
BYU (+20)
Auburn (+2)
SMU (-7)
Wisconsin (+2)
Arkansas (+3)
Kansas State (+1)
Air Force (-2)
Texas A&M (+1)
Houston (+10)
San Diego State (-17)