In the 2024 college football season, the Alabama Crimson Tide faced a rare and unexpected setback: they were left out of the College Football Playoff (CFP). This exclusion marked a significant moment in the program’s storied history, prompting widespread analysis and discussion among fans, analysts, and former players. The consensus among many is that while the playoff system may have its flaws, Alabama’s absence was largely due to their own shortcomings.
Alabama’s season concluded with a 9–3 record, ranking them No. 11 in the final CFP standings. Despite this respectable record, they were passed over for the final at-large bid, which instead went to SMU, a team with an 11–2 record. The decision was met with surprise and disappointment, especially considering Alabama’s victories over top-ranked teams like Georgia and LSU. However, the committee’s decision was influenced by Alabama’s losses to unranked teams, which ultimately hurt their playoff chances.
One of the most glaring missteps in Alabama’s season was their unexpected loss to Vanderbilt, a team that had never before defeated a No. 1 ranked opponent. This 40–35 upset was not just a loss; it was a historic moment that reverberated throughout the college football world. The defeat highlighted vulnerabilities in Alabama’s defense and raised questions about their preparedness and focus.
Analysts like Paul Finebaum have pointed out that Alabama’s exclusion from the playoff was more a result of their own mistakes than any shortcomings of the playoff system. Finebaum emphasized that Alabama’s loss to Oklahoma was a critical factor in their omission, suggesting that had they performed better in that game, their playoff hopes would have remained intact.
In response to the exclusion, Alabama’s athletic director, Greg Byrne, expressed frustration and hinted at potential changes in the team’s scheduling strategy. Byrne suggested that the current approach of scheduling tough non-conference games might not be beneficial for securing a playoff spot, indicating a possible shift towards a more strategic scheduling model in the future.
Looking ahead, the 2025 season presents an opportunity for Alabama to learn from their past mistakes and reassert their dominance in college football. The team will need to address the defensive lapses that were evident in the Vanderbilt game and ensure that they maintain focus and discipline throughout the season. Additionally, the coaching staff must adapt to the evolving landscape of college football, where parity is increasing and every game counts towards playoff contention.
The Crimson Tide have a rich tradition of excellence, and while the 2024 season was a setback, it also serves as a valuable lesson. If Alabama can learn from their shortcomings and make the necessary adjustments, they have the potential to return to the top of college football and secure their place in future playoffs.
In conclusion, Alabama’s absence from the 2024 College Football Playoff was a wake-up call for the program. While the playoff system may have its flaws, the primary reason for their exclusion was their own performance on the field. As they move forward, the Crimson Tide must focus on consistency, discipline, and adaptability to ensure that they remain a perennial contender in college football.
