Last weekend, the Gamecocks won at Clemson — a ranked team — and moved up one spot in the CFP ranking. Alabama won over Auburn — a team that finished 5-7 — and was rewarded with a two-spot bump into the critical No. 11 position, the one that essentially would ensure a spot in the 12-team playoff.

It’s not Miami’s fault that it didn’t play Clemson and SMU this season, but it’s not to Miami’s credit either.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.