We have reached that time of the year that seems to be the only time that really counts in the college football season.  At least it seems to be that way for the media.

As I commented in a blog at the beginning of the season, the first game of the year between Boise State and Virginia Tech was supposed to determine which of those two teams would play for the BCS Championship in January.   Well, neither will be but thats neither here nor there.

Every team with a 6-6 or better record will be playing in somebodys bowl game.  If this is how we reward teams for their efforts during the season, terrific!  If it is what the fans want, great!

If it is a time to showcase the great game of college football and to bestow No. 1 on someone then why dilute the whole decision making process with polls and votes and computer ratings?  Why not have a playoff to decide the National Championship?  Decide it on the field of play, not in some backroom somewhere.

Every other sport does.  œMarch Madness in basketball is twice the show put on by the BCS system.  Division I-AA football has a playoff as does Divisions II and III.  No problem.

It is not an either/or question.  Give me a half dozen knowledgeable people that represent the various entities, i.e., universities, TV, Major Bowl games, etc. and I guarantee in short order it can be figured out so that the  œbig bowl games (Rose, Sugar, Cotton, Fiesta, etal) will maintain their stature as part of the process of determining a National Champion.

Television runs the show.  As any good crime show detective on TV knows, œwhen in doubt, follow the money.  How can the powers that be in the media say they have the best interests of the fans at heart?  There is always some cloud over the selection of the final two teams.  There is no doubt who was the best when determined on the field of play.

Even professional football, baseball, hockey and basketball have figured that much out.  Soccer does it all over the WORLD.

If it is just logistics it can be worked out.  If it is about control and greed we have a problem.  Please dont continue to promote that the current plan is the best for all concerned.  Ask any athlete how he or she would like to determine their prospective champion.

There is nothing like an NCAA Championship event.  Final Four, Frozen Four, College World Series, etc.  What it took on the field of play to get there and that special honor to be No. 1, even if it is only for a year.

Last thing.  I think the best part is being able to observe young men and women put everything on the line win or lose.  When they do that we are in the presence of greatness.

Look for Coach Todds latest book on line in January at lulu.com or YouPublish.com.  It is titled the œArt of Losing”Coaching Athletics and Thriving in a Made-for-TV World.