What's Happening?
The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has decided to shift to a nine-game league schedule for football, starting next year. This change aligns the ACC with other Power Four conferences, such as the Big 12, Big Ten, and Southeastern Conference, which have already adopted similar scheduling models. Commissioner Jim Phillips announced the decision, highlighting overwhelming support from athletic directors after extensive discussions. The new schedule will also include at least 10 games against power-conference opponents, although the ACC's odd number of football-playing member schools presents some scheduling challenges. Most teams will transition to the nine-game slate next year, while some will play eight league games and two against Power Four opponents to accommodate existing nonconference commitments.
Why It's Important?
The move to a nine-game schedule is significant as it aims to enhance the ACC's competitiveness and financial standing. By increasing the number of games against power-conference opponents, the ACC hopes to boost its teams' College Football Playoff resumes and improve TV viewership ratings. This change is part of a revised revenue-distribution model that factors in TV ratings, potentially increasing financial payouts for the league's top brands in football and men's basketball. The ACC has been striving to close the revenue gap with the Big Ten and SEC, and this scheduling adjustment is a strategic step towards achieving that goal.
What's Next?
The ACC plans to present the new scheduling model to its faculty athletic representatives for formal adoption. Additional discussions and details are expected as the league works to finalize the transition. By 2027, 16 of the 17 teams will play a '9+1 schedule,' while one team will have an '8+2' slate. The league will continue to navigate the complexities of scheduling with an odd number of football-playing members, ensuring that nonconference games are strategically planned to maximize competitive and financial benefits.
Beyond the Headlines
The ACC's decision to adopt a nine-game schedule reflects broader trends in college football, where conferences are increasingly prioritizing high-profile matchups to enhance their visibility and financial returns. This shift may influence other conferences to reevaluate their scheduling practices, potentially leading to more uniformity across the sport. Additionally, the emphasis on TV ratings in revenue distribution highlights the growing importance of media partnerships in shaping the financial landscape of college athletics.
