Statistical argument against BCS
From Slate: an article that directly addresses the fundamental design flaws in the BCS formula, specifically w.r.t. its use of computer polls.
http://www.slate.com/id/2208108/pagenum/all/#p2
Mostly arguments that have been used before, but this article lays them all out in a logical and convincing fashion.
Hat Tip: Dr. Saturday
January 8th, 2009 at 6:31 PM ^
I agree with 1-3. The problem is that arguments against the BCS are not the same as an argument for a playoff. I have yet to encounter a convincing argument for a playoff system. #4 hints at a common one, but one that is deeply flawed. Given how much more entertaining I find college football than any sport with a playoff system, I am loathe to endorse one without a good reason.
Is the BCS using computer rankings effectively? No. They pretty much just replicate the human polls at this point. Should that change? It depends on how you deal with issue #1: What's the point of this whole ranking thing, anyway? Without resolution of that question, we don't know in which direction to change. Does any of this suggest a playoff is needed? Not at all.