Pitt Does Its Bit to Clarify the CFP Bracket

Conference games.

They're the true evaluator of a team's qualifications for a national championship bracket.

Yes, there's often a talent disparity between a conference's haves and have-nots, but a few of those in the middle have the possibility of rising to the occasion, familiarity neutralizing any hint of mystique.

Take Syracuse this season.

The Orange were ready for Clemson, and as it appeared the Tigers weren't ready for them, the singularity materialized.

That scenario took care of one undefeated ACC team. It's now done the same to the other:

The Hurricanes have spent the season doing what they've had to do to sustain their run.

Make no mistake, this is an impressive accomplishment. Still, when what they're doing is just enough, road games can become even more challenging.

Pitt's a proud program, and as an underdog, it's done stuff like this before.

Just ask Clemson last season.

The Panthers also helped bail out the Selection Committee. The preposterous assumption that two teams from one conference could make the bracket has now become what it should've been all along: a non-starter.

Thus, the ACC title game between the 'Canes and Clemson is exactly what it should be:

A bracket quarter-final.

All the FBS needs to do is add four teams to the field, make deals with more bowls, and let all teams sort the championship out for themselves.