CFP Delays Format Changes as Pac-12 Awaits Decision, Listens to Potential TV Partners

The College Football Playoff (CFP) management committee, consisting of 10 conference commissioners and Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick, recently met to discuss potential television partners and format changes for the playoff expansion to 12 teams next year. While the number of spots reserved for conference champions in the expanded field of 12 was not specifically discussed, the current model includes the six highest-rated conference champions and six at-large selections. However, with the future of the Pac-12 conference uncertain due to realignment, there have been suggestions to potentially reduce the number of league champions in the playoff to five, with seven at-large bids.

CFP Executive Director Bill Hancock stated that until the conference realignment situation is resolved, it is unclear how many conference champions will be included in the playoff. Ten Pac-12 members are joining new power conferences next year, leaving only Oregon State and Washington State as remaining members who have expressed a desire to continue the conference. However, the specific details of how the Pac-12 will proceed are still unknown.

While the fate of the Pac-12 conference is being determined, the CFP managers authorized the search process for four additional championship sites. The media presentations were focused on strategic approaches to partnership with the CFP, rather than specific numbers. Although ESPN currently owns the rights to the playoff until 2025, other networks have expressed interest and will have the opportunity to bid for media rights in the future.

The discussion of adjusting the conference champion model from 6-6 to 5-7 was not seen as an urgent matter. The CFP management committee did not feel a pressing need to address this issue immediately. The bid for media rights beyond 2025 will be open to all interested parties.