The Impact of Pac-12's Shrinking on College Football Playoff Selection

The departure of Oregon and Washington from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten could have significant implications for the selection process of the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP). The current structure grants automatic bids to the top six conference champions, but with the potential decline of the Pac-12, powerful leagues like the Big Ten and SEC may push for changes to the format. This could result in fewer automatic bids and more at-large selections, favoring the stronger conferences. However, a 12-team playoff featuring conference champions from non-major conferences would increase Cinderella possibilities and add excitement to the event. The future of the CFP formula will likely be influenced by media rights holders and the interests of the Big Ten and SEC.