College Football Playoff expands to 24 teams starting next season
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 9, 2026, 4:44 PM
Last updated Nov 9, 2026
The College Football Playoff will expand from 12 to 24 teams beginning next year, marking a significant shift in postseason structure. This decision culminates a three-decade reliance on conference title games as key season events, as announced by college leaders. ESPN has adjusted its contract to accommodate the additional playoff games, committing to a five-year deal worth $1.7 billion, supplementing its existing $7.8 billion agreement through 2031. The new playoff will feature five automatic qualifiers and an additional 19 teams selected by a panel, with early rounds played on campus. The adjusted format intends to provide wider access to programs and student-athletes across the country.
- •College Football Playoff transitions to 24 teams starting next year.
- •ESPN will provide $1.7 billion for new playoff games.
- •Five automatic qualifiers will be from the Power Four leagues.
- •Early rounds will take place on campus to enhance home field advantages.
- •Mississippi State president Mark Keenum supports broader access for teams.
- 4:44 PMCBS Sports — College Football Playoff officially expanding to 24 teams for 2027 season
- 4:34 PMYahoo Sports — College Football Playoff doubles up, expands to 24 teams beginning next season
"The College Football Playoff will double in size to 24 teams beginning next year, bringing an end to a three-decade era of conference title games that used to be among the marquee events of the season.College leaders announced the new format Monday, after ESPN agreed to rework its contract to add the 11 new games.
"The move eliminates conference championship games, beginning in 2027
Sources
External links- CBS SportsNov 9, 2026, 4:44 PMCollege Football Playoff officially expanding to 24 teams for 2027 season
The move eliminates conference championship games, beginning in 2027
- Yahoo SportsNov 9, 2026, 4:34 PMCollege Football Playoff doubles up, expands to 24 teams beginning next season
The College Football Playoff will double in size to 24 teams beginning next year, bringing an end to a three-decade era of conference title games that used to be among the marquee events of the season.College leaders announced the new format Monday, after ESPN agreed to rework its contract to add the 11 new games.
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