Georgia Defies CFP Committee with Tough Non-Conference Schedule Strategy

The College Football Playoff (CFP) committee has made it pretty clear: strength of schedule isn’t their top priority when it comes to rankings. The Southeastern Conference (SEC) faces some of the toughest schedules in the country, yet they’re often left out in the cold when it comes to recognition.

It’s no wonder a lot of teams have started to rethink their non-conference scheduling. Georgia, though? Kirby Smart’s not playing along. Even when the CFP committee seems to shrug off their efforts, Georgia keeps lining up tough non-conference opponents. That’s not exactly the norm these days.

So, what’s driving Kirby Smart’s approach? And what could this mean for the Bulldogs down the line?

The CFP Committee’s Stance on Strength of Schedule

The CFP committee’s rankings have stirred up plenty of debate, especially about how much strength of schedule really matters. The SEC, famous for brutal matchups, often finds that their tough schedules don’t lead to better rankings. It makes you wonder: Why should anyone bother scheduling tough non-conference games if no one cares?

SEC’s Grueling Schedule

Every year, the SEC’s slate is among the hardest in college football. Still, the rankings don’t always give them much credit for it.

Because of that, a lot of SEC teams have started dodging tough non-conference games. Easier opponents mean more wins, right?

Georgia’s Unique Approach

Georgia, though, is going the other way. They’re still scheduling challenging non-conference opponents, almost stubbornly so. Georgia actually leads the SEC when it comes to future Power Four non-conference games.

Right now, the Bulldogs have 20 Power Four non-conference matchups lined up. That includes the annual game with Georgia Tech, plus home-and-home series against Florida State, Clemson (twice!), and Ohio State.

Kirby Smart’s Philosophy

Kirby Smart’s making these calls for a reason. He probably figures that playing strong opponents gets his team ready for the SEC grind and, hopefully, the playoffs.

It makes sense in theory—iron sharpens iron and all that. Facing top teams can reveal weak spots, force growth, and toughen up the roster. But here’s the thing: Georgia hasn’t won a playoff game in the last three seasons, so maybe it’s not working out exactly as planned.

Potential Risks and Rewards

There’s something gutsy about Smart’s strategy, but it’s not without risk. Playing top-tier teams should, in theory, make the Bulldogs more competitive when it matters most.

But if the CFP committee isn’t impressed, all that hard work might not push them up the rankings—or into the playoff.

Cancelled Series

Interestingly, Georgia has already pulled the plug on two future non-conference series—NC State and Louisville. Maybe that’s a sign they’re rethinking things, or maybe it’s just a blip.

For now, Smart seems pretty set on keeping those big out-of-conference games, even if the payoff is unclear.

The Road Ahead for Georgia

Looking ahead, Georgia’s got some decisions to make. Will they stick with tough non-conference schedules, or start chasing easier wins like everyone else?

Whatever they decide could shape their playoff chances for years to come.

Commitment to Excellence

One thing’s obvious: Georgia isn’t afraid of a challenge. Scheduling tough opponents, year after year, says a lot about their drive.

They’re setting the bar high for themselves, and maybe—just maybe—that’s what it really takes to compete at the top.

Conclusion

Georgia’s non-conference scheduling under Kirby Smart really shows their drive for excellence. They keep stacking tough matchups, even if the CFP committee doesn’t seem all that impressed.

With college football always shifting, who knows if this approach will catch on elsewhere? For now, Georgia’s making their point about strength of schedule—committee opinions aside.