Reader,
Why is the number 21 important?
Numbers often carry meanings beyond their mathematical value, shaped by culture, history,
science, and symbolism. Among these, the number 21 stands out as a figure associated with
maturity, completion, balance, and transformation. Its significance appears across mathematics,
law, culture, religion, and everyday life, making it a number with deep and varied importance.
From a mathematical perspective, 21 is a composite number formed by multiplying 3 and 7, both
of which are considered meaningful numbers in many traditions. It is also a triangular number,
meaning it can form a perfect triangle when represented as dots. This gives 21 a sense of
structure and harmony, reinforcing its symbolic association with balance and order.
In many cultures, the number 21 is closely linked to adulthood and responsibility. In several
countries, including the United States, 21 is the legal age at which individuals gain full adult
privileges, such as voting in certain contexts or purchasing alcohol. This milestone marks a
transition from youth to maturity, symbolizing independence, accountability, and readiness to
participate fully in society. As a result, turning 21 is often celebrated as a major life event.
Religiously and spiritually, 21 also holds special meaning. In Christianity, the number is
sometimes associated with completeness, as it is the product of 3 (representing the Trinity) and 7
(often symbolizing perfection or divine completeness). In the Bible, periods of 21 days appear in
moments of spiritual testing and revelation, suggesting perseverance and spiritual growth.
Similarly, in other belief systems, 21 represents the completion of cycles and the achievement of
spiritual awareness.
Culturally, the number 21 is prominent in games and traditions. In the card game Blackjack, 21 is
the highest winning number, symbolizing success, strategy, and risk. In sports, achieving “21”
points often represents victory, particularly in games like basketball and badminton. These
associations reinforce the idea of 21 as a number linked to achievement and triumph.
In everyday life, the number 21 is often connected to habit formation and personal development.
A popular belief suggests that it takes 21 days to form a habit, symbolizing discipline and self-
improvement. Although modern psychology debates the exact number of days, the idea has
endured, making 21 a symbol of transformation and commitment to change.
Who doesn’t love 21? I remember buying my first beer at on my 21 st birthday. I remember
winning big at the blackjack table and everyone yelling “21!”. I remember bumping 21 Savage
on road trips.
The number holds no negative connotation, until now.
Today, the number 21 holds no significance other than mockery to college football as a whole.
The James Madison Dookie Dogs are a 21.5 point underdog to Oregon.
JMU does not face the same level of weekly competition as Power Five programs. Putting a team
from a weaker conference into the CFP rewards avoiding elite opponents instead of beating
them. That sends the wrong message to fans, players, and programs who grind through brutal
schedules every week.
From an entertainment standpoint, JMU in the CFP results in less competitive games. Fans tune
in to see heavyweight matchups between proven powers, not mismatches where one team is
clearly outclassed in talent and depth. Blowouts hurt ratings, reduce excitement, and damage the
playoff’s credibility.
Finally, James Madison would undermine the value of the regular season. If teams can reach the
CFP without facing top-tier competition, marquee games lose importance. College football
thrives on high-stakes matchups, and JMU’s inclusion dilutes what makes the sport compelling.
In short, James Madison in the CFP lowers competitive quality, weakens the regular season, and
produces a less exciting playoff—making college football worse overall.
Thanks CFP, you have not only ruined everyone’s favorite number, but you have ruined your
product as well. I hope you enjoy watching a blowout.