Why Cincinnati is Considered One of the Best in College Football

When we discuss the top college football teams, Cincinnati's Bearcats often hold a unique position in the conversation. In the current ten-year tenure of the College Football Playoff (CFP), the Bearcats stand out as the only team from a 'Group of 5' conference to make the CFP. This remarkable feat, which occurred in 2021, has not only highlighted the Bearcats' exceptional performance but also brought them into the spotlight as a force to be reckoned with in the college football landscape. Let's explore why Cincinnati is considered one of the best teams in the country.

The Bearcats' Unprecedented Success

In just the past decade, the Bearcats have achieved something that very few teams have managed to do - securing a spot in the CFP while competing in one of the 'Group of 5' conferences. Prior to the 2022 season, the Bearcats were members of the American Athletic Conference (AAC), which is often considered one of the lower-tier conferences. Despite this, their exceptional performance propelled them into the Big XII, marking a significant change in their conference alignment.

This achievement is particularly noteworthy when we consider the criteria typically used to define 'non-traditional' teams. Traditionally, the 'Power 5' conferences (SEC, ACC, Big Ten, Pac-12, and Big 12) are considered the most prestigious. However, within these conferences, there are often teams that are not perceived as 'blue-bloods' by any stretch of the imagination. Vying for a CFP slot against teams from powerhouses such as Vanderbilt, Northwestern, or Duke, the Bearcats would seem to have a challenging task. Despite these expectations, the Bearcats have consistently proven their mettle, cementing their status as one of the best.

More Than Just a Statistical Anomaly

The Bearcats' success is not merely a statistical anomaly or a one-off achievement. Since 2014, only a handful of teams from outside the 'Power 5' conferences have made the CFP. Most of these teams qualify as 'blue-bloods' by any measure. Exceptions to this rule include:

Michigan State (2015): Even though the Spartans are now part of the Big Ten, they had a significant run in the CFP. Texas Christian University (TCU) (2022): Another by-the-edge-of-the-cut-off success story. University of Washington (2016 2023): The Huskies have twice managed to get in, showing their consistent quality.

These exceptions further emphasize the exceptional performance of the Bearcats, as they stand as one of the few teams to qualify from a lower-tier conference. The fact that the Bearcats made the CFP in 2021, while in the AAC, is a testament to their strength and consistency.

Underlying Factors Contributing to Success

The Bearcats' path to the CFP has been marked by a combination of factors:

Consistent Performance Over the Years: The Bearcats have built a reputation for strong, consistent performances, which has earned them the respect of coaches, players, and fans. Quality Coaching: The head coach has played a pivotal role in shaping the team's success, fostering a culture of discipline, hard work, and strategic preparation. Student-Athlete Development: The Bearcats have a strong track record of developing student-athletes who are not only top-tier players but also valued members of the community.

These factors, combined with a dedicated fan base and a commitment to excellence, have contributed to the Bearcats' success and their standing as one of the best teams in college football.

Conclusion

Cincinnati's Bearcats are a testament to the potential of underdog teams to rise to the top in college football. By excelling in a 'Group of 5' conference, they have proven that success in college football is not confined to the 'blue-bloods' of the Power 5 conferences. The Bearcats' journey to the CFP and their continued dominance in their conference garner them a well-deserved place among the best in the nation. As the college football landscape continues to evolve, the Bearcats will undoubtedly remain a key player, inspiring other teams to strive for excellence and challenge the typical notions of college football powerhouses.