Week 4 - Top 25

We're only three weeks into the season so the data is REALLY thin, but here is a look at how 'My Numbers' sees the national Top 25 right this minute.  A little explanation...this isn't a poll.  There is no voting.  So this isn't any form of hopelessly biased beauty contest or faux tally of coaches / media member opinion.  Rather, my ranking is 100% based on data --- what is your record, who have you played, and how well have you played.  There is no advantage given to preseason expectations, last year's performance, or program history of any kind.  All that matters in the 'My Numbers' rating is 2015 won/lost percentage, strength of schedule, and offensive/defensive efficiency (rushing and passing yards per attempt).  The way teams should be rated!!

Some big surprises, for sure, and some confirmations. 

1. I think Georgia has been "that good" so far and I'm not surprised to see the Bulldogs sitting on top of a pure math rating right now. 

2. Northwestern cracks the My Numbers Top 10, riding an impressive defensive effort to start their season.  The Purple Cats are among the Top 5 in the country against the run and the pass right now. 

3. Michigan State, on the other hand, is 3-0 but was very fortunate to beat Oregon at home and are giving up 275 passing yards a game.  Yes, Spartacus is winning and the talking head press is pouring on the love, but I don't think they're really playing all that well...yet.  I do think there is a lot more there, though, and "small sample size" is probably affecting MSU's My Numbers rating as much or more than anyone.  Fear not, Green and White.  You'll climb in my ratings just like you climbed the "human" polls...after you appease the math gods in charge here!

4.  I'll likely get called a homer for the elevated Notre Dame rating, but there is no data dry-labbing going on for the Irish here.  The explanation is simple.  Notre Dame is the only team in the country with three wins over Power 5 conference schools, so strength of schedule pumping up the Irish My Numbers rating right now.  That and the impressive defensive showings against Texas and Georgia Tech. 

rank	team
1	Georgia
2	Notre Dame
3	Ohio State
4	LSU
5	Mississippi
6	UCLA
7	Alabama
8	Iowa
9	Florida State
10	Northwestern
11	Oklahoma
12	Stanford
13	Florida
	Boise State
15	Clemson
16	Texas A&M
17	Baylor
	Southern California
19	North Carolina
20	Kansas State
21	Oklahoma State
22	TCU
23	Memphis
24	Michigan State
25	West Virginia