From the Bird’s Nest: My Harris Poll Vote
Finally, a shakeup in the top ten.
I've pretty much voted the same in the top nine the last three weeks. But now, there's been some separation. As a result of so many teams losing (especially in the lower seven) it took a while for me to rank the teams this week. This is what I came up with.
1. LSU
2. Alabama
3. Oklahoma State
4. Stanford
5. Boise State
Obviously, the first two were easy, and I ranked them the same way for the third week. It doesn't really matter who's number one and who's number two. They'll settle that in prime time on CBS on November 5th.
Oklahoma State has played the best competition of those that are left. And, they've won on the road and done so convincingly. I moved Stanford ahead of Boise. The Cardinal have won eleven straight games by 25 or more points. Boise showed their vulnerability for the first time, having to work to beat Air Force.
6. Clemson
7. Oklahoma
8. Oregon
9. Michigan State
10. Wisconsin
Clemson still hasn't shown they can play defense, but they keep winning. I struggled with number 7, but gave Oklahoma a slight nod over Oregon. That could change next week depending on their performances. Michigan State beat Wisconsin, but only on a Hail Mary. So, they're 9-10.
11. Arkansas
12. Kansas State
13. Nebraska
14. South Carolina
15. Virginia Tech
Arkansas could have moved up, but struggled with Ole Miss. Kansas State has a big test against Oklahoma next week and the Sooners won't be happy. Michigan State has one of the toughest three game stretches, having beaten Michigan and Wisconsin, their reward is a trip to Lincoln. South Carolina fell on my list because I had to make room for Michigan State. And, Virginia Tech looks like they're recovering from that loss to Clemson.
16. Houston
17. Michigan
18. Texas A&M
19. Penn State
20. Arizona State
Houston is still unbeaten. Yeah, they've played a weak schedule. They're unbeaten. Michigan holds steady. Texas A&M has now won three straight. Penn State is quietly getting it done. Their only loss was to Alabama. Arizona State moved up a few notches because of all the losses.
21. Southern Mississippi
22. West Virginia
23. Cincinnati
24. Texas Tech
25. TCU
I almost ranked Southern Miss last week, going with SMU instead. But the Eagles were pretty impressive with their win over the Mustangs. WVU drops after their loss to Syracuse. Cincinnati is the only team unbeaten in Big East play. Texas Tech earned a spot after that win over OU. I almost went with Georgia at #25, but decided on TCU instead.