But college football is a broad spectrum, even within leagues. What works for Ohio State, Michigan State and Wisconsin does not necessarily suit Rutgers, Purdue and Illinois.

Consider the situation Virginia is in. Coach Mike London’s job is in peril after his teams compiled an 11-25 record over the past three seasons. Last year was actually the best of the three (5-7), but it did little to solidify the ground beneath London.

Does it help to know that the Cavaliers played the No. 2-ranked schedule in the nation last season, according to the NCAA? Probably not. And will it help London’s case much this season that UVa has the 12th-toughest slate? If you ask UVa fans, they’ll probably tell you that they’d rather see a few more wins than appearances on these "daunting-schedule" lists.