BREAKING: Tyler Booker sparks controversial statement on Alabama not Contending for College Football Playoff
Alabama Crimson Tide co-captain and left guard Tyler Booker remains confident that his team deserves a spot among the nation’s top 12. With the regular season concluded, attention now shifts to the College Football Playoff (CFP) committee, which will determine the 12 teams vying for the National Championship.
The upcoming conference championship games will play a key role in finalizing seeding. Before that, the CFP rankings show on Tuesday night will provide insight into where teams stand ahead of Selection Sunday on December 8.
Alabama, however, won’t be in action this week after finishing the regular season at 9-3, falling short of qualifying for the SEC Championship. Georgia and Texas will battle for that title, leaving the Crimson Tide’s playoff hopes uncertain. Despite their record, Booker passionately advocated for Alabama’s inclusion during an appearance on The Next Round on Monday.
“I feel like the Playoff is designed to have the best 12 teams in the country,” Booker stated. “If you turn on the film and think Alabama isn’t one of the best 12, I don’t know how you define the best. The schedule we played and the talent we have make it clear to me. Our record may not be perfect, but when we show up to play, we are one of the best.”
Alabama’s strength of schedule could bolster its case, with ranked wins over No. 7 Georgia, No. 15 South Carolina, and No. 21 Missouri. However, losses to No. 8 Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and Oklahoma complicate matters, leaving the CFP committee with a tough decision.
Fans and analysts will get a clearer picture of Alabama’s prospects during the CFP rankings show at 6 p.m. CT on ESPN.