The College Football Playoff (CFP) is one of the most contentious and exhilarating aspects of the modern college football landscape. Each season, teams jockey for position, scrutinizing rankings and scenarios with the hope of securing one of the coveted spots. For Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel, however, the chaos surrounding the CFP seems to be little more than background noise.
While Heupel’s composed approach to the madness is both admirable and refreshing, it may not necessarily align with what’s best for Tennessee’s aspirations to establish itself as a perennial playoff contender. His focus on controlling what his team can control and ignoring outside distractions is a sound philosophy, but in today’s CFP era, public perception and narrative-building matter more than ever.
Josh Heupel has consistently demonstrated a level-headed perspective when discussing the CFP. Rather than engaging in public politicking or campaigning for his team, Heupel emphasizes preparation, execution, and improvement. His message to the team and fans has always been clear: focus on the next game, not the rankings.
This mindset creates an environment where players can thrive without the added pressure of external expectations. It’s a strategy that encourages discipline and ensures that the team’s energy remains on the field rather than in the media spotlight.
Heupel’s approach is also a reflection of his personality as a coach. Known for his calm demeanor and focus on fundamentals, Heupel is the kind of leader who prioritizes long-term success over short-term distractions. This philosophy undoubtedly contributed to Tennessee’s resurgence under his leadership, including a historic 11-2 season in 2022.
However, the CFP is not just about wins and losses; it’s also about perception, style points, and strategic campaigning. In a system where a committee of humans determines the final four teams, optics matter. Coaches like Nick Saban and Kirby Smart understand this reality, often using press conferences and media appearances to subtly advocate for their teams.
For Tennessee, a program still striving to establish itself as a consistent CFP contender, a more proactive approach to the playoff conversation might be necessary. Engaging in the narrative doesn’t mean compromising on principles; it means ensuring that Tennessee’s accomplishments are recognized and appreciated on the national stage.
By not engaging in the CFP dialogue, Tennessee risks being overlooked in close scenarios. For example, if multiple teams have similar records and resumes, the committee might lean toward programs with more vocal advocates or those generating greater media buzz. In this context, Heupel’s reserved approach could inadvertently hurt Tennessee’s chances.
Additionally, in a hyper-competitive recruiting landscape, being part of the CFP conversation is a powerful tool. Prospective recruits want to join programs that are not only winning but also actively chasing championships. A more visible presence in the playoff discourse could help solidify Tennessee’s reputation as a destination for elite talent.
To be clear, Heupel doesn’t need to transform into a media-centric coach overnight. His authenticity and focus on the game are part of what makes him a great leader. However, striking a balance between humility and advocacy could benefit Tennessee in the long run.
Heupel can continue to instill a “one game at a time” mentality in his team while also ensuring that Tennessee’s voice is heard in the broader CFP conversation. Highlighting the program’s achievements, emphasizing the strength of their schedule, and engaging in the narrative surrounding the playoff race are all ways to complement his current approach.
Josh Heupel’s approach to the CFP madness is both admirable and grounded in principles that have served Tennessee well during his tenure. His focus on preparation, execution, and blocking out noise has helped rebuild the program and set it on a path toward sustained success.
However, as Tennessee looks to establish itself as a consistent playoff contender, a more vocal presence in the CFP dialogue may be necessary. By embracing a balanced approach, Heupel can maintain his authenticity while ensuring that Tennessee remains a prominent player in college football’s most important discussions.
In the high-stakes world of the CFP, perception often influences reality. If Tennessee wants to secure its spot among the elite, it may need to speak up—and Josh Heupel is the voice that can make it happen.