During a recent meeting of college football conference commissioners, discussions centered on potential expansion models for the College Football Playoff (CFP). Various formats were considered, including 12-team, 14-team, and 16-team structures. While no official decisions were made for the upcoming seasons, extensive deliberations covered seeding changes and automatic qualifiers. The next CFP meeting is scheduled for March to gather more information before finalizing any plans.

The Big Ten and SEC emerged as key influencers in these discussions, with both conferences exploring ideas such as automatic bids. Despite speculation, no concrete proposals were presented for the 2026 season. The current media deal with ESPN expires in 2026, adding urgency to the talks. Commissioners also emphasized the importance of unanimous agreement for any changes, ensuring all parties are aligned before proceeding.

Potential Expansion Models Under Consideration

Conference leaders delved into multiple scenarios for expanding the CFP, examining how different team counts could impact the tournament's structure. The primary focus was on evaluating the feasibility and benefits of larger brackets. This exploration included reviewing past seasons under hypothetical expanded formats to understand potential outcomes better. Officials acknowledged that while various models were discussed, no definitive choices have been made yet.

In-depth analysis revealed that expanding the playoff could introduce new dynamics, such as increased competition and broader representation from smaller conferences. However, concerns about logistical challenges and maintaining the integrity of the championship process remain. The ACC commissioner Jim Phillips highlighted that the group is committed to finding a format that enhances the fan experience and rewards deserving teams. As discussions continue, the aim is to strike a balance between inclusivity and competitive fairness. The March meeting will be crucial in gathering additional insights and reaching a consensus on the best path forward.

Seeding Adjustments and Automatic Qualifiers

Beyond the number of teams, another critical aspect of the discussions involved potential adjustments to the seeding system. Commissioners explored how different seeding methods could affect the tournament's fairness and competitiveness. One idea gaining traction is the concept of straight seeding, mirroring the rankings provided by the CFP committee. This approach would ensure that the highest-ranked teams receive favorable positions, regardless of their conference affiliation.

Automatic qualification for certain conferences, particularly the Big Ten and SEC, was also part of the conversation. Although no formal proposal has been put forward, the possibility of guaranteed spots for these power conferences remains a point of interest. Rich Clark, the CFP executive director, clarified that while this topic came up, no specific plans were outlined for the 2026 season. Ensuring five conference champions secure spots remains a priority, aiming to maintain a balanced representation across diverse programs. The ongoing dialogue reflects a commitment to refining the CFP structure to better serve the evolving landscape of college football.