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SEC's 'Cupcake Week' Faces Scrutiny
22 Nov
Summary
- SEC conference schedule faces criticism before playoffs.
- Coaches question value of nine-game conference slate.
- Oregon vs. USC game could impact playoff picture significantly.
The college football regular season's approach to Week 13 brings intense scrutiny to the Southeastern Conference's scheduling practices, particularly its "cupcake week." This tradition of facing lower-tier opponents in the penultimate week is drawing criticism, leading many to question the value of the SEC's nine-game conference schedule in the context of the College Football Playoff race.
Many SEC coaches believe the playoff selection committee is increasingly valuing undefeated records over a team's strength of schedule. This sentiment fuels the debate, with some coaches arguing that a brutal SEC slate is being devalued. The upcoming game between No. 7 Oregon and No. 15 USC in the Big Ten is highlighted as a critical contest that could solidify one team's playoff chances while significantly damaging the other's.
While the SEC has enjoyed recent success in reaching the College Football Playoff, the perception of a potentially hollow scheduling advantage persists. The Oregon-USC game is poised to not only reshape the playoff landscape but also intensify discussions surrounding the SEC's postseason strategy and the true meaning of a challenging schedule.
