Expansion of College Football Playoffs: An Unwanted Transformation?

The phrase ‘grow the game’ frequently appears in discussions about niche sports like hockey or golf. Recently, college football has made yet another attempt to expand, transitioning its playoff system from 12 to 24 teams. Critics argue this move could compromise the formerly engaging regular season. This perspective challenges the notion that expansion is inherently positive.

College football’s pursuit of a broader audience through playoff expansion isn’t novel. Initally, the College Football Playoff replaced the BCS system to address its perceived inequities. After adopting a four-game model, we shifted to 12 games and now, to 24. The question remains: if 24 seems appealing, is more teams better? What’s the boundary?

This shift is paralleled by conference realignment and the prolific transfer portal, which increasingly aligns college football with the NFL. Advocates of expansion justify it by referencing the NFL playoffs, suggesting similar inclusion percentages enhance appeal. But the essence of college football differs. It’s the regional passion that stands out, not emulating the NFL.

College football may lack the popularity of mainstream sports, yet it remains deeply cherished by its fans. Those who failed to connect with its regional focus were never compelled to watch. Attempting to attract a broader audience often dilutes its unique charm, targeting the lowest common denominator.

Financial motivations partly drive efforts to grow college football’s audience. While increased visibility offers potential revenue benefits, it may erode the loyalties of fervent fans. The NHL has experienced similar challenges, gaining exposure while attracting a broader, less invested audience. Despite these outcomes, college football’s core appeal has always been its distinctiveness.

College football isn’t meant for everyone. Efforts to include diverse audiences risk losing the sport’s inherent appeal. Those preferring the NFL should embrace it while allowing others to savor the collegiate experience. College football thrives on its passionate, regional identity — an irreplaceable feature that expansion threatens.