The debate over a 24-team College Football Playoff has reached a critical inflection point — and it all comes down to one conference. With the Big Ten, ACC, and Big 12 already on board, the SEC’s decision at its upcoming spring meetings could reshape college football’s postseason for years to come.
Where things stand
Three of the four Power conferences support expanding the CFP from 16 to 24 teams, but SEC commissioner Greg Sankey has held firm in his opposition. A 2024 memorandum of understanding between the SEC and Big Ten requires both conferences to agree before any expansion can happen — giving Sankey an effective veto.
Why conferences want 24 teams
The case for expansion rests on two pillars: access and revenue. A larger playoff opens the door for more programs to compete for a national title, with Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark noting the format would specifically benefit his conference. More playoff games also means more media rights money — a boost that would flow even to smaller Group of Five conferences, which currently receive far lower distributions than Power Four schools.
Sankey’s concerns
The SEC’s resistance isn’t just posturing. Sankey has repeatedly raised questions about what a 24-team bracket does to regular-season stakes, particularly the penultimate weekend of play — historically one of the most meaningful in college football. There are also unresolved structural questions, like whether conference championship games would survive an expanded calendar. President Trump even signed an executive order in March to prevent early-round CFP games from conflicting with the Army-Navy game.
What happens next
The SEC convenes its spring meetings in Destin, FL, where expansion is expected to be a major agenda item. Even if the SEC comes around, a 24-team format couldn’t launch until 2027–28 at the earliest, with ESPN holding a December 1, 2026 deadline for a final decision. SEC coaches and ADs are currently split on the issue, per a CBS Sports survey. The Big Ten, meanwhile, says it’s in no rush: “If we have to wait, it’s OK. We’ll wait,” Petitti said.
Frequently Asked Questions
When could a 24-team CFP actually happen? The earliest would be the 2027–28 season, assuming a decision is reached by ESPN’s December 1, 2026 deadline.
Why does the SEC have veto power? A 2024 agreement between the SEC and Big Ten requires both to sign off on any format change. Since the Big Ten already supports expansion, the SEC is the deciding vote.
What if they can’t agree? The current 12-team format stays in place.