Now that the end of the 2024 college football season is just one game away, with the College Football Playoff National Championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame kicking off on Jan. 20, people in charge of the postseason are looking at how the first year of the 12-team playoff went. They’re evaluating what parts were successful, where they fell short, and what problems came up.
Amid this, there have been repeated queries about the CFP seeding structure and how it might change in the coming year.
Marcus Freeman on Changes Regarding Future CFP Structure
Talking about the ongoing discussions with sports business reporter Amanda Christovich were Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman and Ohio State head coach Ryan Day, whose teams are ready to take part in the finale on Jan 20.
According to Christovich, Freeman made his stance on the situation known: “I really don’t have a strong opinion about the playoff structure.” He added that it was something he would contemplate after the final game, with Day agreeing.
“I really don’t have a strong opinion about the playoff structure,” Marcus Freeman says. He said it’s going to be a great thing to contemplate after the game.
Ryan Day agreed.
— Amanda Christovich (@achristovichh) January 19, 2025
Day also shared his thoughts on the inaugural format. “The new format has allowed our team to grow and build throughout the season,” Day said. “As much as losses hurt, they really allow us as coaches and players to take a hard look at the issues and get them addressed, and then it’s about the business of getting them fixed as time goes on.
“I think that’s really been the biggest thing that I’ve learned about this format, which I think has been great for our players. I think it’s great for college football.”
All in all, the new 12-team playoff has been a success, according to SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey. More teams were a part of the playoffs later in the season. The first-round playoff games, held at college campuses rather than bowl arenas, saw a big crowd. The CFP National Championship contest is also expected to draw large numbers.
However, there has been some discussion about possibly changing the rule that gives the top four seeds a bye in the first round, but making said change would require unanimous support from the CFP Management Committee, which includes the FBS commissioners and Notre Dame’s athletic director.
Some commissioners, like those from the Big 12 and Mountain West, have said they are open to discussing changes but are cautious about making big adjustments so soon. Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark said he’s open to discussing it, but he doesn’t want to give up the financial benefits that come with the current bye rule.
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