Mercer University's football team, the Bears, competes in the Football Championship Series (FCS), a division of the NCAA. Unlike the more prominent Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), the FCS doesn't have a single, universally recognized ranking that spans the entire season like the AP Poll or Coaches Poll for FBS teams. Instead, rankings for FCS teams fluctuate throughout the season based on several different polls and computer rankings.
Understanding FCS Rankings
Several organizations publish weekly rankings for FCS football teams. These include, but aren't limited to:
- STATS Perform FCS Top 25: This is a widely followed poll that considers various factors in its rankings. It's a good starting point for understanding Mercer's standing relative to other FCS teams.
- Coaches Poll: Similar to the FBS Coaches Poll, this ranking reflects the opinions of FCS head coaches.
- Other Media Polls and Computer Rankings: Various sports websites and publications also offer their own rankings, often employing different methodologies. These can offer additional perspectives on Mercer's performance.
Therefore, there's no single definitive answer to "Where is Mercer ranked?" The answer depends on which poll you're consulting and the specific date.
Finding Mercer's Current Ranking
To find Mercer's current ranking, you should check the websites of these various ranking organizations. A simple Google search for "FCS football rankings" will usually provide links to the most up-to-date polls. Look for the rankings published most recently to get the most current information. Remember that these rankings are dynamic and change every week based on game results.
Factors Affecting Mercer's Ranking
Mercer's ranking is determined by several factors, including:
- Wins and Losses: The most obvious factor. A winning record significantly boosts a team's ranking.
- Strength of Schedule: Playing against strong opponents, even with losses, can positively impact rankings compared to a team with many wins against weaker opponents.
- Point Differentials: The margin of victory or defeat in games often plays a role. Consistently dominating opponents tends to improve ranking.
- Pollster Subjectivity: Although polls strive for objectivity, elements of subjectivity inevitably exist. Individual pollsters may weigh different factors differently, leading to slight variations in rankings across different polls.
Beyond the Rankings: Understanding Mercer Football
While rankings provide a snapshot of a team's performance, it's important to remember that they don't tell the whole story. Following Mercer's games and paying attention to their overall performance will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the team's progress and capabilities.
In summary: To find Mercer's current ranking, you'll need to actively check various FCS football rankings websites. The ranking will fluctuate throughout the season. Don't rely solely on a single ranking, but rather consult multiple sources for a more complete picture.
