
Deadline Looms on Bigger CFP as SEC, Big Ten Seek Contingency
CFP expansion talks are on hold as SEC and Big Ten leadership negotiate a format by Friday; absent a deal, the field stays at 12 next season. Georgia coach Kirby Smart and ACC Network analyst Mark Richt back a larger playoff if designed well, arguing it would give more programs a shot and revive bowls. The Big Ten pushes for a 24-team playoff (with talk of 32 later), while the SEC wants to preserve the conference championship game and the regular-season structure. ESPN extended the deadline to allow more negotiations for formats planned for 2026–27.









