College Football Playoff board approves 12 team playoff model
The College Football Board of Managers has approved the new model for the expanded 12-team playoff. The unanimous vote now ensures that the five highest-ranked conference champions earn a playoff berth, with the following seven highest-ranked teams filling out the bracket.
The original plan called for the playoff to include the six highest-ranked conference champions plus the next six highest-ranked teams. The change was made after the Pac-12 fell apart due to conference realignment.
Dr. Mark Keenum, President of Mississippi State University and Chair of the CFP Board of Managers, said in a statement that changing the format will be a positive change for the playoff and the players.
“This is a very logical adjustment for the College Football Playoff based on the evolution of our conference structures since the board first adopted this new format in September 2022. I know this change will also be well received by student-athletes, coaches and fans. We all will be pleased to see this new format come to life on the field this postseason.”
Under the recent change, the top four teams will receive a first-round bye, while the other eight teams play one another on the home field of the higher-ranked team. No conference will qualify automatically, and there is no limit on the number of eligible teams from one conference.
