Where Will It End? 2nd Tier Schools Want a 2nd CFP Tournament!

Memphis athletic director Ed Scott is pushing for a second College Football Playoff tournament for teams outside the top 24, in response to the upcoming expansion in 2027. Scott spoke about the idea with USA TODAY Sports, expressing concern that smaller conference teams could be pushed into a crowded field. He proposes that each of the six Group of Six conferences could send a top team to an eight-team bracket after the main playoff field is set.

This would provide a second chance for teams to win a title, similar to the NIT in college basketball. The proposed playoff would have significant benefits for the SEC, as nine SEC teams are currently ranked in the top 24 and would likely make the field. The expanded playoff would also create more games and revenue for the conferences involved.

However, the push for expansion comes with opposition from networks like ESPN, which will pay an additional $345 million per year for the expanded playoff over the next five years. ESPN is keeping control of the event rather than accepting a lower offer from competitors. Even successful coaches like Nick Saban and Urban Meyer have expressed concerns about the change, with Saban stating that not all 24 teams can win the national championship and Meyer expressing regret over the disappearance of SEC Championship games.

The current bowl system is losing its appeal with players, who want to go home for the break. The new playoff could change the postseason experience for fans in smaller markets, providing a better chance at a title for teams outside the top 24.