The College Football Playoff (CFP) is on the verge of a major expansion, potentially introducing a new 24-team format that would kick off in the 2027 season. This change comes after extensive discussions regarding the playoff structure, with various stakeholders weighing in on how to enhance the competition.
New Format Details
In the proposed design, referred to as the “19+4+1” system, there will be 19 at-large bids granted to teams based on their performance throughout the season. In addition, the champions from the Power Four conferences and the highest-ranked team from the Group of Six will secure spots in the playoff.
Changes to the Championship Landscape
One of the most notable shifts under this new format is the anticipated removal of Power Four conference championship games. Furthermore, the beginning of the college football season is set to be pushed back by a week, allowing for a more extended playoff pathway for participating teams.
This significant expansion comes just three seasons after the CFP increased its size from four teams to 12, a move that ended a decade dominated by a four-team playoff structure.
Playoff Structure and Scheduling
With the new 24-team model, the top eight seeds would earn byes in the first round, enabling them to host games in the subsequent round. Meanwhile, teams seeded 9 through 16 would host the opening round on their home fields, creating a more exciting playoff atmosphere.
The initial rounds are planned to take place on college campuses, which would promote fan engagement and community involvement. The quarterfinals and semifinals are slated to be held at the prestigious New Year’s Six bowl venues.
Approval Timeline and Stakeholder Positions
Though this revised playoff structure is generating buzz, it is important to note that the plan has yet to be finalized. The CFP has set a deadline of December 1 to approve any changes for the 2027 season, keeping stakeholders and fans keenly interested in the outcome.
The discussions surrounding the playoff’s future began four years ago, coinciding with the decision to broaden the playoff from four to 12 teams in 2022. Among the voices advocating for expansion was Notre Dame's athletic director, Pete Bevacqua, who expressed support for a 16-team playoff back in July 2025.
In a further development just a month later, the Big Ten Conference brought up the possibility of ramping up the playoff to 24 or even 28 teams, sparking interest in a wider competitive field.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey has also weighed in, advocating for a 16-team format last December. However, recent comments suggest he is now open to the idea of accommodating 24 teams in the playoff expansion.
Interestingly, the ACC and Big 12 conferences, who previously showed resistance against a 24-team setup, have shifted their stance, indicating acceptance of this proposed expansion earlier this year, reflecting the evolving consensus among major college football stakeholders.