ACC Moves to Nine-Game Football Schedule, Aiming for Revenue Boost

What's Happening?

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is transitioning to a nine-game league schedule for football, starting next year. This change involves teams playing at least 10 games against power-conference opponents, aligning with other Power Four conferences. Commissioner Jim Phillips announced the decision, highlighting the overwhelming support from athletic directors after extensive discussions. The move aims to address unbalanced scheduling and improve access to the College Football Playoff. The ACC's unique position as the only power conference with an odd number of football-playing members introduces scheduling complexities, with some teams adopting an '8+2 model' to accommodate existing nonconference games.

Why It's Important?

The ACC's shift to a nine-game schedule is crucial for enhancing the conference's competitive standing and financial prospects. By aligning with other major conferences, the ACC aims to close the revenue gap with the Big Ten and SEC. The revised revenue-distribution model, factoring in TV viewership ratings, offers potential financial benefits for the league's top brands in football and men's basketball. This strategic move could also bolster teams' College Football Playoff resumes by ensuring more games against power-conference opponents, thereby increasing the league's overall competitiveness and appeal.

What's Next?

The ACC will present the new scheduling model to its faculty athletic representatives for formal adoption. While most teams will transition to the nine-game slate next year, some will follow an '8+2 model' due to existing nonconference commitments. By 2027, the majority of teams are expected to adopt a '9+1 schedule,' with one team continuing the '8+2' format. The league anticipates further discussions and adjustments as it implements the new schedule, aiming to balance competitive integrity with logistical challenges.