The first College Football Playoff rankings of the 2026 season are sparking controversy as Notre Dame finds itself outside the top 10 despite having just one loss. On FINTECH.TV’s Market Movers, Remy Blaire speaks with Rick Horrow, Sports Business Analyst and CEO of Horrow Sports Ventures, about the debate surrounding the playoff selections, the highly anticipated matchup between Miami and Notre Dame, college football television ratings and the approaching NFL trade deadline.
Horrow examines the selection committee’s decision to rank Notre Dame at No. 11, leaving the Fighting Irish with little room for error in their pursuit of a playoff appearance. With undefeated Miami occupying the No. 1 position, the upcoming showdown in South Bend on Saturday, November 7, has become one of the most significant games of the season. Horrow discusses why the ranking controversy could provide additional motivation for Notre Dame as it prepares to face the Hurricanes.
The conversation explores why Horrow believes the initial College Football Playoff rankings should not be treated as a definitive assessment of the postseason picture. He compares the early rankings to judging a trial before all the evidence has been presented, arguing that the final selections matter far more than the first announcement. However, he acknowledges that the controversy creates significant attention for college football and its broadcast partners, particularly ESPN.