University of Miami athletic director Dan Radakovich expressed disappointment at the Canes being ranked No. 12 in the latest College Football Playoff rankings, missing out on a spot in the 12-team field in favor of Alabama. Michigan AD Warde Manuel, chair of the selection committee, explained that Alabama’s stronger performance against Top 25 teams and teams above .500 was the deciding factor.
Radakovich and football coach Mario Cristobal advocated for Miami’s inclusion in the field, with ACC commissioner Jim Phillips also supporting the Canes. The team’s two losses to quality opponents, Georgia Tech and Syracuse, were highlighted as solid performances that should be considered. However, Miami is now projected to play in the Pop-Tarts Bowl against BYU.
While Miami had a strong case for inclusion, critics pointed out losses to less competitive teams like Vanderbilt and Oklahoma hurt Alabama’s chances. The committee’s emphasis on good wins over “good losses” and a poor strength of schedule ultimately led to Miami being left out of the Playoff conversation.
The final Playoff field will be determined after the FBS conference championship games, with Miami currently having an eight percent chance to make the cut. Despite the disappointment, the Canes will look to make a statement in their upcoming bowl game.
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