It even received one first-place vote. Quite a few AP voters have said that if the Tigers are the only undefeated team after all the bowls are over, Auburn will get their No. 1 vote. In other words, instead of punishing the guilty for cheating, let's punish the innocent for being eligible to go to a bowl. Then go ahead and cheat and get the best players. Even if you get caught, you'll still be able to win the AP national title.
Every team wants to win a national championship and get a ring.
And with the present system, a team can still cheat and win it all. Alabama can make the same argument if it goes undefeated. No. 1 on Jan. 3 - even if the Tigers were the only undefeated team at the end of the season. Bowden's squad was very impressive last season, and has been even more impressive this season including a win over Florida in the Swamp. If you think the Tigers are a Top 3 team during the regular season, then go ahead and vote them that way.