College Football Playoff opens talks with ESPN on possible 24-team field
The CFP has 30 days to assess the commercial case for expansion, with a decision required by 1 December for changes to begin in 2027.
The College Football Playoff has opened an exclusive 30-day negotiating window with ESPN as it considers expanding from 12 teams to a possible 24-team field.
The CFP said the discussions are intended to clarify the financial and media-rights implications of expansion and do not amount to a decision or commitment to change the format. ESPN currently holds the playoff rights.
The governing body must decide by 1 December whether any changes will apply from the 2027 season. If no agreement is reached, the field will remain at 12 teams for 2027.
The proposal has exposed differing positions among the major conferences. The Big Ten, ACC and Big 12 support a 24-team field, while the SEC has continued to favour 16 teams.
A larger playoff could increase revenue, but it would also create scheduling pressures and could put conference championship games at risk. Those games remain a significant source of income for conferences.
The format, financial terms and involvement of other broadcasters remain unsettled. The negotiating window gives ESPN an opportunity to present an offer before the CFP potentially seeks wider market interest.
