During the college football season, Mel Kiper and Todd McShay kick off each week by settling a debate, then they discuss emerging NFL prospects and look ahead to next week.

The discussion: Does the SEC title game winner deserve to play for the BCS Championship, even if there are two undefeated teams remaining?

Mel Kiper: In a word, yes.

Look, we all know polls and rankings reflect accomplishments more than merit. Going into the weekend, did any of us really believe that No. 9 Louisville could beat South Carolina, the team ranked just behind them? Of course not. And we have similar issues at the top. Notre Dame is a pretty telling case. They've had an exceptional season, and have, in the eyes of voters, earned their No. 3 ranking. But that number reflects what they've accomplished, not how good we really think they are. If they scheduled a neutral-site game for Saturday against Georgia, Alabama, LSU, Texas A&M, South Carolina or Florida, which one of those games would they be favored to win? Maybe South Carolina? Maybe Florida?

For Mel and Todd's look at who should be playing for a BCS title, top players from the weekend, and much more, become an ESPN Insider.

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