BCS shuffles formula in its latest title quest

The Associated Press poll will count for one-third of each team's ranking under the new formula Bowl Championship Series officials unveiled Thursday in their latest attempt to find a simpler, more equitable way to determine a national champion.

Under the new formula, which begins this season, the AP writers' poll, the coaches' poll and a combination of computer rankings will each count for one-third of a team's overall BCS ranking.

Strength of schedule, team record and quality wins, three components used under the old system, have all been eliminated.

"In analyzing the BCS standings, we wanted to develop a ranking formula that would be simpler and more precise," said BCS chairman Kevin Weiberg, the commissioner of the Big 12 Conference.