What's Happening?
Ohio State Buckeyes coach Ryan Day has proposed a change to enhance the rivalry game known as 'The Game' between Ohio State and Michigan. In an interview, Day suggested that the elimination of the Big Ten championship game could keep the rivalry as intense
as ever, with the stakes remaining high. He envisions 'The Game' serving as a play-in for the College Football Playoff (CFP), where the winner would advance, adding more significance to the matchup. With the potential expansion of the CFP to 24 teams, Day believes that such a change would make the rivalry even more critical, as teams would be playing for a chance to secure a high seed or a first-round bye.
Why It's Important?
The proposal to make 'The Game' a play-in for the CFP could significantly impact the dynamics of college football rivalries. By increasing the stakes of the Ohio State-Michigan matchup, the game could attract more attention and viewership, enhancing its importance in the college football landscape. This change could also influence how other rivalries are perceived and scheduled, potentially leading to a shift in how regular-season games are valued. The proposal aligns with the broader discussions on expanding the CFP, which aims to increase participation and competitiveness in college football.
What's Next?
As discussions on the expansion of the CFP continue, the proposal to make 'The Game' a play-in for the playoffs will likely be considered by stakeholders in college football. The potential changes to the playoff format and the scheduling of rivalry games will be key topics in upcoming meetings and negotiations. The outcome of these discussions will determine how college football rivalries are structured and valued in the future.
