It's still real, real early to be talking about anyone winning the NC or getting left out, but imagine this:
Auburn wins the rest of its games, including SECCG. Southern Cal wins the rest of its games. Ohio State and Michigan are undefeated when they play at the end of the year. I think the prospect of the Big 10 - PAC 10 National Title game would be too much for Auburn to overcome -- The OSU/UM winner would be #1, USC would be #2, and the Aubs would be out in the cold for the second time in three years!
That scenario is sweet enough, but here's the kicker: Miami will be looking for a coach at the end of the year. Tubs was Miami's DC before he became a head coach. If he's any kind of true competitor and wants a shot at a national title, he would have to conclude that shot isn't going to come at Auburn. In addition to being undefeated and uncrowned for the second time in three years, the Aubs may be looking for a coach come January!
Auburn wins the rest of its games, including SECCG. Southern Cal wins the rest of its games. Ohio State and Michigan are undefeated when they play at the end of the year. I think the prospect of the Big 10 - PAC 10 National Title game would be too much for Auburn to overcome -- The OSU/UM winner would be #1, USC would be #2, and the Aubs would be out in the cold for the second time in three years!
That scenario is sweet enough, but here's the kicker: Miami will be looking for a coach at the end of the year. Tubs was Miami's DC before he became a head coach. If he's any kind of true competitor and wants a shot at a national title, he would have to conclude that shot isn't going to come at Auburn. In addition to being undefeated and uncrowned for the second time in three years, the Aubs may be looking for a coach come January!