The 2024 college football season has reached its pinnacle, with the biggest day upon us. In this inaugural season of the 12-team College Football Playoff, all four major conference championship games on Saturday hold significant implications. The victors of the Big 12, SEC, ACC, and Big Ten championships will earn automatic bids to the CFP and a substantial sum of money.

The Financial Bonanza of the College Football Playoff

A berth in the College Football Playoff comes with a lucrative $4 million payout. Each team advancing to the CFP quarterfinals will receive an additional $4 million. Making it to the semifinals nets $6 million, and advancing to the national championship game brings in another $6 million. This doesn't include the $3 million each team gets to cover expenses for each round.For Arizona State (10-2), starting the day by facing Iowa State (10-2) in the Big 12 championship at 9 a.m. PT/Noon ET, imagine they emerge victorious and then win their first-round CFP game. Their total payout, including expenses, would amount to $14 million. A semifinal appearance would see a $23 million payout, while a championship game berth would result in a whopping $32 million ($20 million in revenue distribution plus $12 million to cover expenses).It's important to note that this money doesn't go directly to the school; it goes to the conference. This is why it's a big deal for a conference like the Big Ten to have four teams in the CFP field. Assuming No. 1 Oregon, No. 3 Penn State, No. 6 Ohio State, and No. 9 Indiana all make it, the Big Ten stands to receive a guaranteed payout of $12 million and an opportunity to earn much more.

College Football Playoff Rankings Heading into Saturday

Here's what the College Football Playoff Rankings look like as we approach Saturday. The final rankings will be released on Sunday.OregonTexasPenn StateNotre DameGeorgiaOhio StateTennesseeSMUIndianaBoise StateAlabamaMiamiOle MissSouth CarolinaArizona StateIowa StateClemsonBYUMissouriUNLVIllinoisSyracuseColoradoArmyMemphis

More Arizona State & Big 12 Analysis

Arizona State's journey in the Big 12 has been nothing short of remarkable. Their 10-2 record has positioned them as a strong contender in the conference. The team's performance on the field has been a testament to their hard work and dedication. They have shown great resilience in facing tough opponents and have emerged victorious in many crucial games.The Big 12 itself is a highly competitive conference, with teams vying for the top spot. Arizona State's success within this conference adds to the excitement and drama. Their games against other top teams have been closely contested, with each match providing valuable lessons and experiences for the players.Looking ahead, Arizona State's potential in the CFP is significant. If they can continue to perform at a high level and make it through the playoffs, the financial rewards and the prestige that come with it will be a major boost for the program. It's a journey that holds great promise for both the team and the university.The Big 12 championship game between Arizona State and Iowa State is set to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams have shown their mettle throughout the season, and this game will determine which one moves forward in the playoff race. The stakes are high, and the players will be giving it their all on the field.In conclusion, the 2024 college football season is shaping up to be a memorable one, with the Big 12 championship and the CFP playoffs at the forefront. The financial rewards and the excitement of the games make it a must-watch for football fans around the world.