College Football Playoff bids are great. Making your rival miserable is still better

As Rivalry Week in college football approaches, the focus is on the emotional intensity and historical significance of team rivalries, rather than just playoff implications. This period highlights the deep-rooted enmities that define the sport, exemplified by matchups like Ohio State vs. Michigan, which can overshadow even national championship victories. The unpredictability and passion of these games contribute to the sport's unique appeal, offering memorable moments beyond the structured playoff system. Games such as Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State and Alabama vs. Auburn are set to influence not just playoff standings but also the longstanding pride and bragging rights among fans. These rivalries, some dating back over a century, continue to be the essence of college football, reminding fans that defeating a rival can be more satisfying than a championship title.