Five takeaways from CFP rankings: The ACC might actually get left out

BYU not getting the respect it deserves

Although the Cougars (11-1) have the one loss to No. 4 Texas Tech earlier this season and the No. 6 strength of record, they are the first team out of the 12-team field behind No. 8 Oklahoma, (10-2), No. 9 Alabama (10-2) and No. 10 Notre Dame (10-2).

Yes, BYU was blown out by Texas Tech, 29-7, in a game that was never as close as the final score indicated. However, even though BYU's best win was against a Utah team that is currently ranked 15th, a competitive showing in the Big 12 title game should at least put it in consideration for a spot, especially with one fewer loss than those ahead of it.

Texas still on the outside looking in after taking down Texas A&M

The Longhorns (9-3) are the highest-ranked three-loss team at No. 13, but are still the third team out of the 12-team field, behind BYU (11) and Miami (12). 

If BYU loses to No. 4 Texas Tech in the Big 12 Championship game and No. 9 Alabama gets blown out by No. 3 Georgia in the SEC title game, the Longhorns would at least have a fighting chance. However, they would still need to move ahead of a two-loss Miami team at No. 12, which seems unlikely considering neither teams plays this weekend.

James Madison finally getting recognition for impressive season

The Dukes (11-1) finally enter the CFP rankings at No. 25, with their only blemish of the season in Week 2 against Louisville (8-4). With a Sun Belt title on the line against Troy on Friday night and a potential upset from Duke in the ACC title game, there is a clear path to James Madison being the fifth highest-ranked conference champion.

Head coach Bob Chesney, who will be leaving for UCLA, has compiled a record of 20-5 after taking over for current Indiana HC Curt Cignetti. The Dukes may just have a date with the CFP with some help from Duke.