Ranking every College Football Playoff team in history

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Clemson Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney holds up the National Championship trophy after the 2017 College Football National Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide on January 9, 2017, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. Clemson defeated Alabama 35-31. (Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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AUBURN, AL – NOVEMBER 25: Damien Harris #34 of the Alabama Crimson Tide catches a pass during the first quarter against the Auburn Tigers at Jordan Hare Stadium on November 25, 2017 in Auburn, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

9. Alabama Crimson Tide – 2018

Result: TBD

Putting this year’s Alabama Crimson Tide team this high might rub some people the wrong way — particularly those hailing from Columbus, OH. After all, there is an argument to be made that Nick Saban’s group doesn’t deserve a spot in the CFP. It’s hard to argue with the logic that you should at least play in your conference championship game to earn the right to play for the title. Heck, even Saban himself said that one year ago. But they’re in, and there’s no denying their talent.

Alabama’s offense this season begins with what they’re able to do on the ground. Saying that opposing defenses have to pick their poison doesn’t even feel like it’s doing this rushing attack proper justice. From Damien Harris to Bo Scarbrough to Najee Harris, this group can beat you and wear you down time and again — and that’s before you even get into the running ability of Jalen Hurts. Speaking of Hurts, he’s made strides as a quarterback this year too, being ultra protective of the football as he’s thrown just one pick all season.

As is often the case, though, you can’t talk about the Crimson Tide without bringing their defense into the mix. Though they have been somewhat inconsistent this season, it’s hard to discredit the talent level of the unit. Minkah Fitzpatrick might be the best defensive player in the country, anchoring this secondary. Meanwhile, Da’Ron Payne and company are forces to be reckoned with up front.

Their spot in the CFP may be up for debate, but the quality of team that they are shouldn’t be.