Big Ten and SEC Push for Expanded College Football Playoff Format

Proposals for a 14- or 16-team playoff starting in 2026 would give the two dominant conferences increased control and guaranteed bids.

Big Ten and SEC leaders are advocating for expanding the College Football Playoff to 14 or 16 teams, with discussions intensifying during recent meetings.
The proposed format would guarantee four automatic bids each for the SEC and Big Ten, raising concerns about competitive balance and fairness for other conferences.
Critics argue that the expansion could favor powerhouse programs and diminish the importance of regular-season results and conference championships.
Potential changes include restructuring conference championship weekends to feature play-in games, further increasing the financial and competitive stakes.
While no final decision has been made, the proposals highlight the growing influence of the SEC and Big Ten in shaping the future of college football.