It’s time for week eleven of the ESP. To observe the trends of the ESP and AV Ranking check out weeks eight, nine, and ten. Also, check back in at the end of the season where there will be a few validation studies of the AV Ranking as well as predictions of the BCS bowl winners. Over the past few years the AV Ranking has successfully predicted about 70 percent of the BCS bowl games, including the last two national champions.

Elite Selection Playoff

The top five of the ESP looks a lot like last week with one exception. Alabama remains atop the rankings for the second straight week after surviving LSU in overtime. Likewise, Texas Tech holds on to the number two spot. The biggest change comes from Penn State who drops down to a tie for number eight after their lost to Iowa.

Elite Selection Playoff

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Strength of Schedule

Washington retains the top strength of schedule spot followed by Arkansas, Purdue, Utah State, and Texas. Out of the top 25 teams in the ESP, only two (Texas and Georgia) have strength of schedules in the top ten. The Fighting Irish have played the 76th ranked strength of schedule.

Strength of Schedule

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AV Ranking

Despite one loss the Longhorns remain number one in the AV Ranking, ahead of Texas Tech and Alabama. This is due to the competition Texas has faced as well as their only loss coming in a close affair on the road. The poor schedules of Alabama and Texas Tech are judged to be worth more debit than the single close away loss of the Longhorns. Notre Dame comes in at number 60 in the AV Ranking.

AV Ranking

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