In a bold and somewhat controversial statement, Alabama head coach Nick Saban recently raised eyebrows by questioning how many fans would have loved to see Washington State quarterback Cam Ward in the College Football Playoff (CFP). This comment, though seemingly innocent on the surface, hints at deeper frustrations with the current state of college football and the selection process that determines who gets a chance at the sport’s most prestigious prize.
Saban, known for his razor-sharp insights and candidness, didn’t hold back when reflecting on the talents of players who, for one reason or another, never get the opportunity to compete in the CFP. In particular, he singled out Ward, who has been one of the most impressive quarterbacks in the country this season but saw his team fall short of the postseason.
While the Alabama coach didn’t explicitly say the CFP is flawed, his remarks underscore a growing sentiment among fans and analysts alike—that the playoff system is overly exclusive, often leaving out deserving players and teams. Ward, who has posted outstanding numbers and led the Cougars to several high-profile wins, has generated significant buzz as one of the top quarterbacks in college football this season. Despite his individual success, Washington State’s inability to make a dent in the CFP rankings left him and many others wondering what could have been if a more inclusive system were in place.
Saban’s comment also draws attention to the ongoing debate over how the selection committee evaluates teams. Critics argue that factors such as strength of schedule and conference affiliation often play a bigger role than actual talent, leading to teams and players getting snubbed. By asking how many would have wanted to see Cam Ward in the CFP, Saban is subtly challenging the status quo, questioning whether the current process truly rewards the best of the best or simply follows a set of arbitrary guidelines.
In the end, Saban’s remark is a reflection of his frustration with a system that, despite its many advantages, still leaves room for improvement. As the conversation about playoff expansion and selection criteria continues to gain momentum, perhaps it’s time to reconsider how we determine who truly deserves a shot at the national title.
