Sneak preview: NCAA power rankings (week 1)

They’re baaack… by popular demand, a scoring system comparing performances of western schools against those in the East. Here’s a sneak peak at the first week of Power Rankings. For a thorough explanation of standings including individual athletes who launched their teams onto the list, please see the complete NCAA Power Rankings in Issue 7 of Ski Racing—due out shortly.

#1 Utah – Both alpine and Nordic squads are bringing serious pace. The Utes are already demonstrating the kind of well-rounded depth to go all the way this year.

#2 Vermont – The Catamounts opened the season with another 1,000-plus points carnival. We’ve got our eyes on alpine rookies Bobby Farrell and Elli Terwiel for blowout seasons.

#3 Colorado – Giving chase to Utah, the Buffs have relied on the Nordic domination of Rune Oedegaard. The Utes still have a target on their back, and the Buffs are charging.

#4 Alaska-Anchorage – With huge movement on the Nordic side, the Seawolves have leapt ahead twice to claim third place overall at RMISA Invitationals; we’ve taken notice.

#5 Dartmouth – The Big Green holds this position on the strength of its Nordic team boasting commanding opening performances, but they better balance it with alpine success soon if they hope to stay on the list.

Photo of Utah’s Parker Tyler on the podium by Scott Havlick
Photo of Vermont’s Bobby Farrell by Cory Ransom