FRC Top 25- Preseason Ranking

[joshsmithers]

Each week, there are top 25 rankings for sports. In the AP Poll, highly qualified sports addicts and writers vote on who they think the top 25 teams are for each sport. This poll is similar, where highly qualified FIRST addicts vote on who they think the top 25 teams are for FRC. Voters picked teams based on success shown at competitions in the past, consistency of the team, and robot design and function. This week, six of the voters submitted complete lists, and the results are based solely on those lists. I will leave it up to the voters to make themselves known or not, but I will say that they are all knowledgeable, reputable members of ChiefDelphi. Please enjoy analyzing this Pre-season Top 25 Ranking. The next ranking will follow the build season and precede the regional competition season.


1. 1114- The number one pick for this list and reigning world champions, it is very likely that Simbotics will return to Einstein this year and continue the dynasty.

2. 217- One of two teams to win more than one Championship. Their robot designs seem truly flawless.

3. 233- Still looking for their first world championship, Pink has been stopped short of it a couple times. However, they show no signs of stopping.

4. 254- The Poofs consistently dominate regionals, not to mention their well-deserved Chairman’s in 04.

5. 67- How do you improve on a Championship and a Championship Chairman’s Award in the same year? Nevertheless, do not put another Championship win past them. Don’t believe it? Go watch some IRI tapes. This team is on a HOT streak.

6. 330- Recent IRI Champs and 05 Champions, this team Keeps It Stupidly Simple.

7. 71- A legend. Never bet against Beatty.

8. 968- RAWC has a reputation for victory and nice robots, but so does 254…

9. 111- The other big name in programming and design; a true powerhouse.

10. 148- This championship team designs consistent, amazing drivetrains and well-build robots.

11. 1024- Kil-a-bytes got what they came for last year. Top-notch programming and a simple design carried this team to regional championships and a spot on Einstein last year, and we’ll all hope they only do better next year.

12. 365- This Chairman’s Award winning team literally stands out at competitions.

13. 16- When I first got sucked into FIRST they were a good team with a great past. It looks like they’re making a comeback, so watch for the Bomb Squad.

14. 987- The High Rollers rounded out the IRI winning alliance. They had a great year, and they’ll hopefully do just as well this year.

15. 25- Undefeated in 06 and tough as heck to beat otherwise, contribute it to a beast drive system every year and consistent design.

16. 2056- Another Canadian powerhouse. Let’s hope the keep it up.

17. 103- Cybersonics teamed up with 25 to win NJ, and later won Monty Madness. They also took home some other trophies; they make a good, profitable pick for FF.

18. 27- RUSH had a so-so year this year, but are consistent each year and build good robots.

19. 45- Technokats made this list for obvious reasons. When have they not built innovative, award winning robots? This team truly represents the phrase “Oldies but Goodies.”

20. 1902- Way to go in 2007. Their previous year was only slightly disappointing, but certainly nothing to cry over. Watch for them!

21. 842- Of course the 2008 Chairman’s Award winners made this list! Be sure to watch for their Chairman’s Award Video!

22. 33- Killer Bees consistently built beautiful robots that win, although last year wasn’t their best.

23. 1625- Winnovation. Not only does the name sound cool, it is also the truth. Finalists at IRI and beasts at Colorado, their innovative robot from last year brought them back into the spotlight.

24. 39- 39th Aero. If you remember the Gila Monsters(I lost my 64 button ), you understand who they are and why they’re so great.

25. 177- Bobcat Robotics is a strong team, but not quite at “powerhouse” status. But hey, 25th is nothing to complain about.