The College Football Playoff Board of Managers Approves Revised Format
The College Football Playoff Board of Managers has unanimously voted to revise the format of the 12-team event, bringing important changes to the structure. The new format will now include the five highest-ranked conference champions and seven at-large bids, departing from the original “6+6” model. This adjustment was introduced to address the recent dismantling of the Pac-12 due to conference realignment.
Under the previous 6+6 model, which was proposed three years ago along with the initial expansion plan to 12 teams, the six highest-ranked conference champions would automatically qualify for Playoff bids, while the remaining six at-large bids went to the next highest-ranked teams.
This new adjustment reflects the evolution of conference structures since the adoption of the previous format in September 2022. Mississippi State president and CFP Board of Managers chair Mark Keenum expressed confidence in the change, stating, “I know this change will also be well received by student-athletes, coaches, and fans. We all will be pleased to see this new format come to life on the field this postseason.”
Starting from the 2024 season, the top four conference champions will receive a first-round bye, while the teams ranked fifth to eighth will face off against the teams ranked twelfth to ninth, respectively. The first-round games will be held at the higher-ranked teams’ home stadiums. The quarterfinals and semifinals will take place at the New Year’s Six bowls, including the Peach Bowl, Rose Bowl, Cotton Bowl, Orange Bowl, Sugar Bowl, and Fiesta Bowl, which will rotate as hosts.
This revised format removes automatic qualifications for conference champions, allowing the possibility for any conference to earn at-large bids. In November, the commissioners determined that Oregon State and Washington State, remaining under the Pac-12 banner and collaborating with the Mountain West to complete their schedules for the next two years, would not be eligible for the automatic qualifying spots reserved for conference champions.
Looking ahead, the CFP’s Management Committee, comprised of conference commissioners and Notre Dame leadership, will meet in person in Dallas on Wednesday to discuss the future structural details for 2026 and beyond.
As we analyze the implications of these changes, it’s worth considering the broader landscape of college football. The recent wave of conference realignment has highlighted the need for flexibility and adaptability within the sport. With conferences disbanding and teams finding new homes, the revised Playoff format aims to provide a fair and inclusive system that accommodates the shifting dynamics of college football.
Moreover, the new format emphasizes the importance of a team’s performance rather than solely relying on conference affiliation. As no conference champions are guaranteed a spot, this model promotes competition and rewards excellence. It also eliminates the potential bias that could arise from favoring certain conferences.
The potential future trends related to these themes are significant. The ever-evolving landscape of college football could see further realignment and adjustments to conference structures. As teams seek opportunities that offer greater financial benefits, exposure, and competition, conferences may need to adapt, leading to a potential reimagining of traditional conference affiliations.
Another area to watch is the impact on the strength of non-Power Five conferences. With the revised Playoff format providing opportunities for at-large bids, it could lead to increased competition between these conferences and the Power Five conferences. Non-Power Five teams can demonstrate their value and competitiveness on a national stage, potentially challenging the status quo and encouraging more attention and respect for these programs.
Furthermore, the increased emphasis on team performance and rankings opens up discussions about the selection process and factors considered. The Playoff selection committee’s criteria and assessments may need to evolve to ensure fairness and transparency. Consideration could be given to strength of schedule, quality of wins, and other metrics that accurately reflect a team’s capabilities and achievements.
In conclusion, the College Football Playoff Board of Managers has approved a revised format that aims to adapt to the changing landscape of college football. The new system prioritizes team performance, promotes fairness, and prepares the sport for potential future realignment. As college football continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to witness how these changes shape the industry, conferences, and the national perception of teams. The future of college football is poised to be more competitive, inclusive, and dynamic than ever before.
(Image: Kirby Lee / USA Today)