Mercer University's football team, the Bears, competes in the Football Championship Series (FCS) of the NCAA, not the more prominent Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). This means they don't participate in the major polls that rank FBS teams like Alabama or Clemson. Therefore, a simple numerical ranking like you'd see for top FBS teams isn't directly applicable to Mercer.
However, Mercer's performance is still tracked and evaluated through various means:
Ranking Systems and Polls within the FCS
Several organizations rank FCS teams, although their methodologies and resulting rankings can vary. These rankings often consider factors like:
- Winning percentage: A straightforward measure of success, directly reflecting the number of wins versus losses.
- Strength of schedule: Playing against tougher opponents boosts a team's ranking, even with fewer wins.
- Computer rankings: Statistical models that analyze various factors to produce a numerical ranking. These can incorporate factors like points differential, opponents' win-loss records, and even game location.
- National polls: While not as prevalent or influential as FBS polls, some organizations publish weekly polls that rank FCS teams based on a combination of factors and voter opinions.
To find the current ranking of Mercer, you'll need to consult these sources directly. A quick search for "FCS football rankings" will provide links to various websites and publications that provide these rankings. Keep in mind that rankings can fluctuate week to week depending on game results.
Beyond Numerical Rankings: Assessing Mercer's Success
While numerical rankings offer a snapshot of a team's performance, they don't tell the whole story. To fully understand Mercer's success, consider these factors:
Conference Standings:
Mercer competes in the Southern Conference (SoCon). Their performance within this conference is arguably more important to the team and its fans than a national ranking. Checking the SoCon standings provides a clear picture of Mercer's standing relative to their direct conference rivals.
Program Development and Goals:
Mercer's football program may have long-term goals that extend beyond immediate national rankings. They may be focusing on building a strong program foundation, recruiting talented players, or improving specific aspects of their game. Their success should be evaluated within this broader context.
Individual Player Performances:
Keep an eye out for individual players receiving accolades or recognition for outstanding performances. These individual achievements contribute to the overall program's success, even without a high national ranking.
In conclusion, there isn't a single, universally accepted ranking for Mercer in college football. To find out how they're performing, you need to look at FCS-specific ranking systems, their conference standings within the SoCon, and evaluate their overall program development and individual player achievements. Remember to consult reputable sports news websites and the official Southern Conference website for the most up-to-date information.
