LSU and Georgia Tech’s Similar Wins Spark Debate Over SEC Bias

Georgia Tech’s Big Wins Aren’t Getting the Recognition

ESPN analyst Heather Dinich’s latest breakdown highlights this perceived SEC favoritism, revealing the subjective nature of the playoff projection. https://www.espn.com/contributor/heather-dinich

According to the Allstate Playoff Predictor, Notre Dame (0-2) and Clemson (1-2) are already in danger of missing out, while SEC teams like LSU and Georgia benefit from historical reputation and conference weight in committee considerations.

Georgia Tech, now with the second-best chance to reach the ACC Championship Game at nearly 40%, faces a clear path to a playoff berth if it wins out.

Yet the Jackets placement in the “work to do” tier underscores a persistent bias: wins over traditionally respected programs appear to matter more than results on the scoreboard.

If Georgia Tech were to capture the ACC title, a playoff spot would be guaranteed, but the road to recognition is steeper than it should be for a team performing at a high level early in the season.

SEC Favorites Get the Benefit of the Doubt

This isn’t a problem unique to the ACC. Across the board, the selection committee’s projections favor SEC and Power 5 programs with storied histories.

Teams like Ole Miss and Texas, despite shaky performances, remain in favorable positions due to conference pedigree and media attention, while teams like Georgia Tech and Illinois must consistently prove themselves to get the same recognition.

The College Football Playoff is still young this season, and rankings are fluid.

But for Georgia Tech, the message is clear: perform flawlessly and still be prepared to fight perception—and bias—every step of the way. https://x.com/overrated_sec/status/1968294900358590483