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Gerald Herbert/Associated Press

The landscape of college football has changed significantly over the course of the past 17 years.

From conference realignment to the shift from the Bowl Championship Series bowls to the College Football Playoff, where champions are actually decided on the field, this isn't your father's gridiron.

In that time, powerhouses have been forged.

Some historically dominant programs that were down at the turn of the century have surged back to the top thanks to great head coaching hires. (Looking at you, Alabama.) Others such as USC and Florida are trying to regain some of the success that landed them on this list in the first place.

Programs like Ohio State and Oklahoma, meanwhile, have maintained a stellar climate of consistency.

So, which programs are the best since 2000? There are many ways to come to a final conclusion, but national championships must be the greatest denominator. Volume of wins against the best competition, opportunities and performances on big stages and consistency are factors, too.

After that, individual successes and star power matter somewhat.

With those factors in mind, here are the top college football programs since 2000.