The College Football Playoff released its first set of rankings. And the committee rankings agrees with this one that Alabama is No. 4.

Of course, this list covers only the SEC and Big Ten. Don’t hate on us, Crimson Tide fans. This list favors unbeaten teams over teams that have lost. And we did rank the Crimson Tide ahead of undefeated Iowa.

Look for the Tide to rise if it knocks off LSU on Saturday.

CLOSEST TO THE WIN

Let’s think of the Buckeyes as holding the belt. Nobody’s beaten them since the first week of the 2014 season and they return most of the stars — Ezekiel Elliott, Cordale Jones and Joey Bosa, included — that led them through the playoffs to the title. Iowa could easily  finish 12-0. But the Hawkeyes would have to beat Ohio State, Michigan State or Michigan in the Big Ten title game to get into the Playoff.

1. Ohio State (8-0)
2. LSU (7-0)
3. Michigan State (8-0)
4. Alabama (7-1)
5. Iowa (8-0)
6. Florida (7-1)

ON THE FRINGE

Some really good teams here — each still in contention for a division title. But they’ll all need a spectacular final month. Ole Miss and Michigan control their own destiny. Texas A&M seems in flux, especially at quarterback, but the Aggies schedule is kind until the season finale with LSU.

7. Michigan (6-2)
8. Ole Miss (7-2)
9. Texas A&M (6-2)
10. Mississippi State (6-2)

IN THE ROUGH

These teams are going bowling — yes, Mark Richt and Georgia, too. Tennessee should cruise to four more victories against week opposition. If it gets past Auburn, Georgia could win out as well, though Richt’s fate may have been sealed by the loss to Florida.

11. Tennessee (4-4)
12. Wisconsin (7-2)
13. Arkansas (4-4)
14. Penn State (7-2)
15. Georgia (5-3)

IN THE HAZARD

Some of these teams will make bowl games, though they probably won’t deserve it. Only Illinois on this list has exceeded expectations. Kentucky still has a reasonable shot at 7 victories, though 6-6 with a loss to Louisville might only get a lukewarm reception from Wildcats fans.

16. Auburn (4-4)
17. Kentucky (4-4)
18. Illinois (4-4)
19. Minnesota (4-4)
20. Indiana (4-4)
21. South Carolina (3-5)
22. Vanderbilt (3-5)
23. Missouri (4-4)
24. Nebraska (3-6)
25. Maryland (2-6)
26. Purdue (2-6)