What's Happening?
The Big Ten is considering new college football playoff formats that could expand the current field to 24 or 28 teams. These proposals include automatic qualifiers for major conferences such as the Big Ten, SEC, Big 12, and ACC, along with selections for top Group of 6 programs and at-large teams. The concept, known as the '7-7-5-5-2-2' model, is still in its early stages and may undergo significant changes. Discussions have been held between Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti and SEC commissioner Greg Sankey, but approval is not imminent. The proposed expansion could lead to changes in regular-season scheduling and the elimination of conference championship games.
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Why It's Important?
The potential expansion of the College Football Playoff could significantly impact the structure of college football, affecting how teams schedule games and compete for championships. It may increase opportunities for more teams to participate in the playoffs, potentially altering the competitive landscape. Conferences like the SEC and Big Ten could benefit from having more teams qualify, while smaller conferences might face challenges in securing spots. The financial implications are also considerable, with potential revenue increases from expanded playoff games and media deals.
What's Next?
Further discussions are expected among conference leaders, with SEC athletic directors set to meet soon to discuss these topics. A decision on the playoff format for 2026 must be made by December 1, as per ESPN's deadline. The CFP is also adjusting its selection criteria to emphasize strength of schedule, which could influence future playoff qualifications.
