CFP Expansion Talks Hit Critical Deadline as ESPN Negotiations Enter Final Week
The College Football Playoff is nearing a decision on expanding from 12 to 24 teams, with executive director Rich Clark calling the effort 'more serious' than ever but not guaranteed for the 2027 season. The CFP management committee met in Rosemont, Illinois, to review ESPN negotiations and logistical hurdles, including the sunsetting of conference championship games and the Army-Navy game schedule. A December 1 deadline looms for format changes, though a 2027 start depends on finalizing details. The Big Ten and SEC, which control the format, are negotiating revenue terms, with the SEC seeking over $200 million to offset lost championship game income. If no deal is reached by October 9, the CFP may take the package to the open market.
