The leaders of the Big Ten and SEC have proposed a new format for the College Football Playoff, which would expand to 16 teams while guaranteeing automatic berths for both conferences. The plan has sparked intense backlash from fans and experts, who argue that it is nonsensical and would damage the sport’s credibility.
The original plan called for 14 teams, with the Big Ten and SEC securing four guaranteed spots each. However, the proposal was later revised to include the Group of 5 conferences, which received two automatic berths. The new expansion plan now includes 16 teams, but the guarantee of automatic berths remains in place.
Critics argue that this format is unnecessary and would lead to a decrease in fan interest, as games are being played in “First Four” tournaments where lower-seeded teams play each other before the main bracket begins. The format also creates confusion and has raised concerns among politicians and antitrust lawyers.
Industry insiders believe that Tony Pettiti, the third-year Big Ten commissioner, is behind the plan, which would give his conference four automatic berths to create an NBA-style playoff tournament on conference championship weekend. This move aims to attract lucrative television contracts and generate revenue for schools, who are under pressure to comply with new rules regarding athlete compensation.
However, experts warn that this plan would undermine the sport’s credibility and popularity. The current format has already been criticized for being complicated and confusing, and adding more berths would exacerbate these issues. The proposal also raises concerns about conference rivalries and the impact on college football’s overall popularity.
It remains to be seen whether the Big Ten and SEC will abandon their plans or find a way to compromise with other conferences. One possible solution is to adopt a 16-team playoff format, but this would require the conferences to put aside their self-interests and prioritize the sport’s well-being.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6379486/2025/05/25/college-football-playoff-format-big-ten-sec