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2d ago

SMU Coach and Analysts Allege Bias in ESPN’s Revised FPI Rankings

Critics challenge the FPI methodology after Miami tumbled eight spots to No. 17; Clemson slid five places to No. 16; SMU advanced just one rank without clear reasons.

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Overview

  • The Football Power Index update on August 16 moved Miami down eight spots to No. 17 and Clemson down five spots to No. 16 while SMU climbed only one rank to No. 19 despite no substantive roster or schedule changes.
  • SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee publicly accused ESPN’s rankings of being “rigged,” arguing that the adjustments systematically penalize ACC teams.
  • Former quarterback and commentator Danny Kanell labeled the shifts “fishy” and suggested they could be designed to favor SEC and Big Ten programs for College Football Playoff consideration.
  • Observers have noted that neither Miami nor Clemson underwent significant roster or schedule alterations to justify such dramatic ranking drops.
  • ESPN has not issued a formal response, leaving calls for greater transparency in the FPI model and scrutiny over its influence on playoff narratives and conference standings.