Shocking Snubs & Surprising Rankings: CFB Players Who Deserved Better Placement on the List
As college football fans eagerly anticipate the next season, one of the most hotly debated topics is the ranking of players. Every year, a slew of athletes are scrutinized, celebrated, and sometimes controversially left off the prestigious lists. The recent CFB Player Rankings revealed some surprising choices, leaving fans wondering: who truly deserved better and who might have been ranked too high?
Let’s start with the players who arguably should’ve made the list but didn’t. One glaring omission this year was Marvin Harrison Jr., the star wide receiver from Ohio State. With his explosive ability to change the game, Harrison is undoubtedly one of the most dominant playmakers in college football. Despite an incredible 2023 season, including numerous highlight-reel catches and the ability to take over games, Harrison did not crack the top tier of rankings. His production and consistency throughout the year demanded a higher recognition, and many felt his name should’ve been among the top 10 players.
Another notable player left off was Brock Bowers, the standout tight end from Georgia. Bowers is widely regarded as one of the most versatile and dangerous offensive weapons in college football. His ability to block, run routes, and be a reliable target in the passing game sets him apart from most tight ends in recent memory. Despite this, Bowers’ ranking didn’t reflect his all-around excellence. As Georgia continues to dominate college football, Bowers’ impact has often been a game-changer, yet his absence from the list is baffling to many.
On the flip side, some players who made the list were ranked lower than many would’ve anticipated. J.J. McCarthy, Michigan’s quarterback, seemed to be criminally underrated. McCarthy had an exceptional season, leading his team to the College Football Playoff, and his calm demeanor and clutch performances in crucial moments placed him in the conversation for top honors. His efficient playstyle and the fact that he can make plays with both his arm and his legs should’ve placed him much higher on the list. The Wolverines’ offense runs smoothly through him, and his ability to deliver under pressure deserves more acknowledgment.
Then there’s Will Anderson Jr., the star pass rusher from Alabama. Known for his disruptive force on the defensive line, Anderson has been one of the most feared players in college football over the past few seasons. While his 2023 season might not have been as explosive as his previous ones, Anderson’s consistency, leadership, and ability to control the game at the line of scrimmage still made him a worthy contender for a higher ranking. His relentless motor and knack for getting after quarterbacks should have been enough to vault him up the rankings, but instead, he found himself outside of the top 5 defensive players.
Moreover, some players who performed well in specific games or had breakout performances found themselves ranked much higher than expected. This highlights a trend of relying too heavily on recent performances or national stage moments rather than a holistic view of the player’s entire body of work.
Overall, CFB Player Rankings have always been subject to debate, and this year is no exception. With so many talented athletes across the country, it’s nearly impossible to get everything right. Still, it’s clear that certain players were overlooked or undervalued, while others may have been given a bit too much credit. As the new season approaches, these rankings will continue to stir debate among fans, coaches, and analysts alike.








