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The College Football Playoff is reportedly moving toward a 24-team format, with ESPN and the CFP in negotiations over a new expansion deal. This potential shift would fundamentally alter the landscape of college football, and Notre Dame is already making plans to adapt.
According to Yahoo Sports college football insider Ross Dellenger, the 24-team playoff would feature 23 at-large bids plus one spot for the top Group of Six team. First- and second-round games would be played on campus, followed by a week off after the regular season. Additionally, conference championship games would be eliminated. The proposal also includes a requirement that every Power Four school play at least 10 Power Four games, a benchmark that 11 schools currently do not meet for 2027.
However, the deal is not yet finalized. The CFP Management Committee, composed of the 10 FBS conference commissioners and Bevacqua, received details of ESPN's proposal on Thursday but did not vote, as issues were raised by executives during the process. The CFP stated that constructive discussions with ESPN continued this week and expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership and productive dialogue.
Notre Dame's Scheduling Shift
With the anticipated expansion, Notre Dame is expected to increase the frequency of games against SEC and Big Ten opponents, per Dellenger. The Fighting Irish have long maintained their independence, though they play five ACC opponents each season as part of a scheduling agreement and hold their own TV deal with NBC. More matchups against SEC and Big Ten teams would present a tougher challenge, but the expanded playoff field would provide greater margin for error during the regular season, allowing teams to schedule more marquee games.
Originally reported by yahoo.