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College Football Playoff nears deal to expand to 24 teams in 2027
The College Football Playoff (CFP) is reportedly nearing a deal to expand its field from 12 to 24 teams, with the new format expected to begin in 2027. Insiders describe the arrangement as a handshake deal between the CFP and ESPN, which is also finalizing a deal to purchase additional game inventory through the 2031 season.
The proposed 24-team structure would likely follow a “19+4+1” model: 19 at-large bids, four reserved for Power Four champions, and one for the highest-rated Group of Six champion. Under this plan, the New Year’s Six bowls would continue to host the quarterfinals and semifinals, while the national championship game would remain in January.
While the expansion is expected to generate significant revenue—potentially adding $320 million to the current deal—it has faced criticism. Former coach Nick Saban has expressed opposition to the 24-team format, suggesting a 16-team field as a more balanced compromise to manage player workloads. Other concerns raised include the potential impact on conference championship games and the value of the regular season.
Entities
Big Ten · Big Ten Conference · College Football Playoff · Congress · ESPN · Greg Sankey · Nick Saban · Pete Thamel · SEC · Southeastern Conference · Tony Petitti
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Under the proposed agreement, the New Year’s Six bowls would continue to host quarterfinals and semifinals. wfnz.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The expansion is currently considered a handshake deal between ESPN and the College Football Playoff. www.saturdaydownsouth.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Nick Saban expressed opposition to the 24-team expansion, suggesting a 16-team format as a compromise. awfulannouncing.com
- [● 8 SOURCES] The expanded playoff format is expected to take effect in 2027. wfnz.com · thebeatdfw.com · awfulannouncing.com · www.crossingbroad.com · www.saturdaydownsouth.com · +3 more
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The CFP is finalizing a deal with ESPN to purchase additional games through the 2031 season. www.saturdaydownsouth.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] An expanded College Football Playoff could add $320 million to the current deal. awfulannouncing.com
- [● 10 SOURCES] The College Football Playoff is nearing a deal to expand from 12 to 24 teams. spotonalabama.com · wfnz.com · sanangelolive.com · thebeatdfw.com · awfulannouncing.com · +5 more
- [● 2 SOURCES] The proposed 24-team format would include 19 at-large bids, four reserved for Power Four champions, and one for the highest-rated Group of Six champion. spotonalabama.com · awfulannouncing.com