Big Ten and SEC Power Play: Shaping the Future of the NCAAF Playoff Landscape

Big Ten and SEC Lead NCAAF Playoff Evolution

For the second time in four months, the SEC and Big Ten conference leaders convened in New Orleans to discuss pivotal changes in college football. This meeting not only addressed the House vs. NCAA settlement and future governance but also set the stage for significant transformations in the College Football Playoff (CFP) structure.

Key Discussions on Playoff Expansion and Seeding

The upcoming CFP management committee meeting in Dallas aims to review the inaugural 12-team field, with athletic directors from the Big Ten and SEC voicing their preferences beforehand. A CFP insider shared, "I expect proposals on governance and formats to emerge from the Big Ten-SEC meeting, though no radical changes are anticipated."

Discussions are twofold: adjustments for the 2025 season requiring unanimous agreement, and more substantial changes for 2026. Seeding is a priority, with a proposed fix using the selection committee's rankings to determine the top four seeds and first-round byes, potentially including Notre Dame.

Proposals for Future Playoff Structures

Looking beyond 2025, sources suggest expanding the playoff to 14 teams with four automatic qualifiers each for the Big Ten and SEC, two for the Big 12 and ACC, one for the highest-ranked Group of 5 champion, and one at-large spot. This model aims to balance fairness with the competitive interests of the most powerful conferences.

The Prospect of More Home Games and Play-In Matches

The success of hosting first-round playoff games on campuses has sparked support for more such games, enhancing fan engagement and reducing travel burdens. Additionally, the concept of play-in games to determine the final playoff spots is gaining traction, though it challenges traditional bowl games and conference championships.

Scheduling Partnerships and League Dynamics

Efforts to foster more compelling matchups between the Big Ten and SEC teams in non-playoff bowls are underway. This initiative is part of broader discussions to enhance the postseason experience for all stakeholders involved. Meanwhile, other leagues observe these developments with a mix of acceptance and concern, acknowledging the Big Ten and SEC’s leadership in shaping college football's future.

As these discussions unfold, the Big Ten and SEC continue to solidify their influence, setting a precedent for how major college football decisions will be made in the years to come.