And the SEC again got the benefit of the doubt. Same as it ever was, right? That was the sentiment emanating from ACC Country Tuesday after the College Football Playoff's penultimate rankings propelled a three-loss Alabama team over a two-loss Miami.

The conference made a case for SMU, Miami, and Clemson as playoff contenders. SMU is 11-1 and is playing 9-3 Clemson in the ACC Championship Game. Miami lost to Syracuse in its last game 42-38 for its second loss of the season. Clemson lost to South Carolina 17-14 to close out the regular season.

Oregon remained No. 1 in the penultimate Top 25, followed by No. 2 Texas, No. 3 Penn State, No. 4 Notre Dame and No. 5 Georgia.