As reported by Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, discussions are ongoing to reformat the College Football Playoff system from a 12-team to a 16-team format. While the SEC and Big Ten seem to hold the power, the Big 12 and ACC are pushing for an automatic bid system.
Reportedly, negotiations are pushing for a shuffle to the system for the 2026 season, with the 2025 season already set in stone as a 12-team playoff, despite programs pushing for change.
Power Four Commissioners Reportedly Discussing CFP Expansion
According to a recent report from Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, the four power conference commissioners met recently to discuss changes to the College Football Playoff format, including potential expansion to include 16 teams.
The four power conference commissioners met today for a second time in the last 10 days as they continue to explore a variety of 16-team playoff models, including a compromise for the Big 12/ACC discussed in the story below, sources tell @YahooSports.
Discussions will continue. https://t.co/Scd3aQofwv
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) May 17, 2025
“The four power conference commissioners met today for a second time in the last 10 days as they continue to explore a variety of 16-team playoff models, including a compromise for the Big 12/ACC,” Dellenger explained.
The amended compromise for the Big 12 and ACC teams involves a suggested additional playoff spot for the conference, as they push for a third guaranteed spot in the playoffs.
“However, the rub is with the number of automatic qualifying spots for each conference. Leaders at the Big 12 and ACC want more than just two automatic spots,” the college football reporter wrote.
Originally, the plans for the suggested 16-team playoff system involved a 4-4-2-2-1 system, with Big Ten and SEC teams getting 4 guaranteed spots, while Big 12 and ACC teams would see half of that.
College Football World Reacts To Proposed Changes To 16-Team Playoff
With the recent changes to the College Football Playoff system being discussed, many coaches, including NC State’s Head Coach Dave Doeren, have given their opinions on the matter.
“We are fighting for our spots. We believe we deserve three automatic qualifiers as a minimum.” NC State head coach Dave Doeren explained to Yahoo Sports.
“Granting spots, that makes zero sense. Football has never been about gifting. It’s about earning.” Said Miami coach Mario Cristobal, discussing any potential format that pre-determines automatic qualifiers.
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“I think you should earn your way in. It comes down to the image of the Big Ten and SEC and where they are, and there’s a lack of respect for the ACC. I don’t like it.” Pitt head coach Pat Narduzzi said.
“I don’t understand why you’d ask for a guaranteed spot other than one automatic for conference champions.” North Carolina Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham argued.
Despite the ongoing dispute over the proposed formatting of the changes to the College Football Playoffs, there has been little to no pushback from anyone to expanding the playoffs to 16 teams rather than the traditional 12.
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