Will the CFP Format Change Again? Greg Sankey Weighs In on the New Landscape of College Football

The Current CFP Landscape The College Football Playoff was introduced to create a fairer and more competitive postseason structure. However, the recent consolidation of power leagues has created a landscape that is anything but equitable. The Big Ten and SEC have significantly strengthened their positions by absorbing teams from the Pac-12 and Big 12, leading to an uneven competitive field. Sankey points out that the 12-team format was designed with a different conference dynamic in mind—one that featured five relatively balanced power conferences. Now, the reality is starkly different. The Need for Caution Sankey advocates for a cautious approach when it comes to modifying the CFP format. "We have a whole different dynamic," he stated, stressing the importance of observing how teams perform in this new structure before making any hasty changes. The volatility of the current environment, he argues, requires a wait-and-see attitude. This approach aligns with the sentiment that the initial intentions behind the CFP should not be discarded without a thorough understanding of the new landscape. Upcoming Conversations on CFP Changes In the coming weeks, discussions surrounding potential changes to the CFP format and selection process are expected to commence. Conference commissioners and school presidents will convene in Atlanta during the national championship game to deliberate the future of college football's postseason. Sankey's statements indicate that while he is open to dialogue, he remains cautious about making any immediate alterations. "Let’s see what happens," he suggested, indicating that the outcomes of the current season will play a crucial role in shaping future decisions.