Rick Neuheisel says Notre Dame’s ‘monster brand’ has tainted CFP rankings originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Rick Neuheisel didn’t hold back in his criticism of Notre Dame this week. One day after the second College Football Playoff rankings were released, the CBS Sports analyst argued that the Fighting Irish’s storied “brand” continues to influence the College Football Playoff rankings more than their on-field performance.
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While analyzing the latest CFP standings, Neuheisel questioned why Notre Dame sits at No. 9 despite losing to Miami and Texas A&M earlier this season and playing what he called “a half-ACC schedule.” He explained Miami’s position behind Notre Dame as evidence of bias.
“It’s the power of the victory over Notre Dame,” Neuheisel said. “And yet, they don’t get the credit for having beaten Notre Dame, because Notre Dame is sitting there ahead of them. It makes no sense. But that’s where we are in the power of Notre Dame. It’s a monster brand and it resonates.”
Notre Dame (7-2) faces No. 23 Pittsburgh this weekend after defeating Navy, but their only win over a ranked opponent came against USC. Meanwhile, Miami (8-2) owns wins over two ranked teams, including the Irish themselves.
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Neuheisel also cited Texas as another example of “brand advantage,” noting the No. 10 Longhorns’ lofty ranking despite an overtime win at Kentucky and a loss to a struggling Florida team.
“Texas and Notre Dame,” Neuheisel said, “are still living off what their logos mean, not necessarily what their performances have earned.”
As the season hits the final stretch, we’ll see how teams are viewed going into championship weekend. Obviously, the conference title holders will be in the running, but seven other spots are up for grabs. Notre Dame’s independence is thus again a blessing and a curse.
