Alabama landed at No. 5 in the first College Football Playoff rankings, drawing sharp backlash after two straight losses raised questions about the Crimson Tide’s résumé. The ranking also put Alabama ahead of Tennessee, which beat the Tide, and Kentucky, which sits at No. 6.

By the Numbers
  • Alabama opened the season 5-0.
  • The Tide lost 20-17 to Georgia and 26-10 to Tennessee.
  • Alabama is No. 5; Kentucky is No. 6, Tennessee No. 13 and LSU No. 14.
Yes, But

Alabama has a recent loss to Texas A&M on its record, but the Tide rebounded with a win over the Aggies. Several weeks remain before the playoff field is selected, leaving time for the rankings to shift.

State of Play
  • Fans and media questioned Alabama’s top-five placement, particularly given Tennessee’s lower ranking.
  • The Tide still have four regular-season games, including a road matchup with No. 14 LSU and the Iron Bowl against Auburn.
What's Next

Alabama’s remaining schedule gives the team opportunities to strengthen its case, especially against LSU and Auburn. The playoff picture will continue to evolve before Selection Day on Dec. 6.

Bottom Line

The No. 5 ranking is an early snapshot, not a playoff guarantee. Alabama’s finish—and how the committee weighs its losses—will determine whether the placement holds up.