Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Rick Scott has written an op-ed for the Tallahassee Democrat calling for transparency from the College Football Playoff (CFP) Selection Committee. The committee recently made the decision to drop the undefeated Florida State University Seminoles from its previous 4th-place ranking, effectively excluding the team from the upcoming playoffs.

Senator Scott expressed concern over the integrity of the committee's decision-making process, particularly since it occurred shortly after FSU's victory in the Atlantic Coast Conference Championship game. He wrote, "This decision... has rightly raised questions among millions of Americans about the integrity of the process employed by this 13-member body." Scott also emphasized the need for transparency, stating, "Given the unprecedented nature of their recent decision, an unprecedented commitment to transparency is required."

In a letter to the CFP Selection Committee Chairman, Boo Corrigan, Senator Scott demanded answers on how the decision was made and what factors influenced the exclusion of FSU. He highlighted the significant impact of the committee's decisions, stating, "There are hopes, dreams, and billions of dollars in economic activity that hinge on the decisions made by the 13-member group Mr. Corrigan leads."

Senator Scott clarified his involvement in the issue, stating, "I won't stand around and say nothing while people in my state get screwed." He emphasized that the committee's decision to exclude FSU has broader implications beyond just the university, as it sets a precedent for Power Five teams being shut out of playoff contention despite an undefeated record and conference championship win.

The senator drew attention to a previous inconsistency in the committee's decision-making. In 2014, Ohio State University's team was not penalized for the loss of their quarterback to a season-ending injury, and they went on to win the National Championship. Senator Scott argued that FSU, with their second-string quarterback, could have achieved a similar feat but was denied the opportunity due to the committee's decision.

Senator Scott's letter to Chairman Corrigan requested specific information to ensure transparency, including how each committee member voted, any private communications they had with individuals affiliated with ESPN or the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and the committee's ethical and conflict of interest standards.

The senator concluded by stating, "The decision... has called into question the integrity of its process. There is a lot of speculation that this decision was made based on some financial calculation." He expressed hope that the requested documents from the CFP would provide clarity and urged college football fans, especially FSU supporters, to continue seeking answers.

The CFP system was designed to create a fair and just method for selecting the best teams in college football. However, the exclusion of FSU from the playoffs has raised concerns about the committee's transparency and decision-making process. Senator Scott emphasized the need for answers and called on the committee to provide an appropriate response to this controversial decision.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2023/12/in-case-you-missed-it-sen-rick-scott-in-the-tallahassee-democrat-i-stand-with-fsu-in-demanding-transparency-from-the-cfp-committee