ESPN Resists CFP Expansion Beyond 16 Teams
As coaches push to expand the College Football Playoff from 12 toward 24 teams, ESPN reportedly wants to cap the field at 16, arguing larger fields undermine bowls and TV deals. The piece notes bigger fields would mean more bonuses for coaches who qualify and more games and wear-and-tear for players, possibly harming pro prospects. While expanding could reduce snubs, it risks including teams that don’t deserve a spot; regardless of the exact number, the trend is toward more teams, with 2, 4, or 12 (and more) under discussion.
