CFP announces new selection format changes for 2026 college football playoffs

The College Football Playoff (CFP) has introduced a new selection format for the 2026 season. Key changes include automatic bids for the champions of the ACC, Big 12, Big Ten, and SEC, while teams from other conferences compete for a single spot. Notre Dame will automatically qualify if it finishes in the top 12, impacting playoff eligibility for other teams like Miami (FL). The top three seeds will now be able to select their preferred New Year’s Six Bowl for quarterfinal matchups. These modifications reflect ongoing adjustments to the playoff system over the past several seasons, aimed at enhancing competitive balance.

• 12:18 AMYahoo Sports — The CFP changed its selection format again for 2026