Mike MacQuarrie Introduces Bias-Free Strength of Schedule Index for College Football

The college football landscape is undergoing a significant transformation with the introduction of the MacQuarrie Strength of Schedule (SoS) Index, a mathematical system designed to eliminate bias from team rankings and playoff selections. Developed by historian and author Mike MacQuarrie, this innovative approach addresses long-standing concerns about subjective voting in traditional ranking systems.

Unlike the current system where human voters in the Coaches Poll and AP rankings often introduce bias—whether intentionally or through deadline pressures and narrative considerations—the MacQuarrie Index relies exclusively on mathematical calculations. The system evaluates teams based solely on their performance on the field and the quality of opponents faced, ensuring that teams with weaker schedules cannot leapfrog more deserving opponents through subjective voting.

The Index will provide updated, bias-free rankings every week throughout the 2025 college football season. By ranking the five highest-ranked conference champions and the next seven best-performing teams using strict mathematical criteria, the system guarantees that the National Championship Playoff always includes the twelve most deserving teams rather than simply the most famous programs. This approach represents a fundamental shift from the current system where, as MacQuarrie states, "Collaboration is not about politics or preference—it's about performance."

MacQuarrie's commitment to fairness stems from his Scottish heritage and connection to Clan MacQuarrie, one of Scotland's oldest Highland clans descending from 9th-century kings. He draws inspiration from Scotland's Highland Games tradition where strength, endurance, and skill determined outcomes without consideration for opinion or bias. This historical perspective informs the Index's philosophy of letting performance rather than politics decide rankings.

Beyond the mathematical rankings, the MacQuarrie Index aims to enhance the overall fan experience by celebrating the traditions and culture that define college football. The platform will feature Player of the Week and Coach of the Year selections determined by an advisory council of former players and coaches. Additional content will include lists of the toughest stadiums, largest crowds, and most storied rivalries, along with insights into mascots, marching bands, tailgates, and other fall Saturday traditions. The inclusion of blog posts and fan discussion forums will help maintain engagement throughout the season.

The implementation of this bias-free ranking system could have substantial implications for college football programs, potentially leveling the playing field for teams that traditionally receive less media attention despite strong performances. For fans, the Index promises greater transparency and fairness in determining which teams deserve playoff consideration, while also providing richer content that celebrates the cultural aspects of college football beyond mere win-loss records.