BCS Formula to Include Style Points in '07

The BCS has been heavily criticized since its inception in 1998. The BCS formula currently includes the Coaches Poll, the Harris Poll, and uses six computer ratings to come up with a computer average poll. These three components make up the BCS rankings. The problem most coaches have is the intangible style points that seem to be taken into account when coaches and writers make their rankings. The NCAA says they will solve the problem by adding a new style point system into the BCS equation next season.

“I think it’s a great move by the NCAA,” said Notre Dame head coach Charlie Weis. “We shouldn’t have been penalized in ’05 for our loss to USC because we looked so good in the game and we came really close to beating them. Under this new system we would’ve been ranked above USC because the style point system would’ve taken Reggie Bush’s push of Matt Leinart into account.”

The new style point system will award points for scoring 50+ points in a game (double if done by halftime), almost wins over top 10 teams, popularity of head coach, design of uniforms, number of post season award finalists, number of celebrity fans, home stadium ranking, missed referee calls, and number of Pontiac Game Changing Performances. Also teams that aren’t from the power conferences such as Boise State will automatically be left out of BCS bowl games.

NCAA President Myles Brand spoke about the new changes in the BCS and what these changes hope to accomplish. “Under this new system, coaches will now know where they stand in the rankings due to style points. There has been much controversy over what exactly style points are and how it affects the way the pollsters vote. Also under this new system Notre Dame is almost guaranteed to play in the BCS championship in the near future and we’re very excited about that.”