Back to the Starting Line for Playoffs

In Asheville, N.C., discussions surrounding the College Football Playoff (CFP) have reset after a proposal emerged to revise the strength-of-schedule metrics utilized by the selection committee. This shift could significantly impact conference scheduling preferences.

Meeting Highlights

The meetings held at the historic Biltmore Estate revealed that the CFP staff proposed to amend how strength-of-schedule is calculated. This adjustment aims to emphasize nonconference games, suggesting that the distinction between eight and nine conference games might be less significant.

If adopted, these metrics may fortify the SEC’s position to retain its 8-game schedule, leading to a format that features fewer automatic qualifiers and more at-large berths, contrary to what the Big Ten advocates. The latter has consistently pushed for a more traditional nine-game schedule.

Further complicating matters, after years of deliberation regarding scheduling changes, the SEC believes the playoff format should influence their game scheduling strategies. The partnership and negotiations between the SEC and Big Ten play a crucial role in shaping the playoff structure moving forward.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey

“They’re obligated to come to an agreement on what the format is.” - Rich Clark

The final decision is due by December 1, and all options for 12-, 14-, and 16-team formats could potentially be revisited.

Implications for Future Seasons

New metrics could drastically evolve the criteria for playoff selections while holding the power to alter the overall structure. With major conferences like the SEC and Big Ten taking the lead in determining future frameworks, the implications of any changes will likely ripple throughout college football.