3 teams that deserve to be ranked ahead of Clemson after Wake Forest upset scare

Clemson hasn’t looked impressive all season but they’ve held onto the No. 5 ranking. These college football powers should leapfrog them.

The Clemson Tigers are 4-0 in 2022. All credit to them for getting there. They just shouldn’t be ranked in the Top 5.

Dabo Swinney and the Tigers are living off reputation from their days with Trevor Lawrence at the helm. He’s not wearing orange anymore, DJ Uiagalelei isn’t at his level and Clemson doesn’t look like they’ll be contending for a national title this year.

Saturday’s overtime showdown with Wake Forest was further proof that the Tigers are overrated at No. 5 in the AP and coaches polls, especially with the defense that was supposed to carry them this year giving up 45 points.

Clemson deserves a ranking, possibly even in the Top 10, but to say they are one of the Top 5 teams in college football is a stretch. Others have a better case.

3 college football contenders that deserve to be ranked ahead of Clemson

Oklahoma Sooners

The Sooners have taken up the No. 6 spot in the polls. They should be at least one spot higher.

Brett Venables, the architect of Clemson’s great defenses, is putting his stamp on the Oklahoma defense. Meanwhile, offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby has former UCF quarterback Dillon Gabriel rolling in Norman.

Oklahoma has been more impressive in the opening weeks of the season. If they make it through Kansas State, they should take over at No. 5.

USC Trojans

Any questions about how quickly Lincoln Riley could turn around the Trojans have been answered with three blowout victories to begin the year.

On offense, USC has everything you could want. Caleb Williams is a Heisman contender at QB. Jordan Addison is playing like he wants to defend his title as the Biletnikoff Award winner. Travis Dye is maintaining his status as the Pac-12’s best running back.

The Trojans have questions on defense but they have been opportunistic on that side of the ball, improving each week against more and more challenging opposition.

A win over undefeated Oregon State would be further proof they’re deserving of a rankings boost.

Tennessee Volunteers

Speaking of high-flying offense, the Tennessee Volunteers offense has come alive in Year 2 under head coach Josh Heupel.

Quarterback Hendon Hooker is playing the best football of his career. The receivers have produced the most long passing plays of 40 or more yards in the country. The run game is feasting as well.

The Volunteers face a huge test on Saturday against No. 20 Florida. The pollsters should give Tennesse far more respect is they’re able to get through that hurdle. Unscathed.

Basically, there are a bunch of undefeated teams in college football this year. Clemson has a lot more to prove to warrant being ranked ahead of so many of them.

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