Steve Sarkisian discusses potential impact of CFP expansion on regular season

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 10, 2026, 8:30 PM

Last updated Sep 10, 2026

Steve Sarkisian discusses potential impact of CFP expansion on regular season
Summary

Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian recently commented on the potential expansion of the College Football Playoff to a 24-team format. CFP officials have opened a 30-day negotiation window with ESPN regarding the structure, which could be implemented as early as 2027. Sarkisian expressed hope that a larger field would incentivize high-profile nonconference matchups rather than lead to a watered-down regular season. He noted that teams currently risk missing the postseason by playing difficult opponents, specifically citing the Texas loss to Ohio State last year. The Big Ten and SEC must reach an agreement on the future format by December 1 if the playoff structure is to change for next season.

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By the Numbers
  • CFP officials entered a 30-day negotiation period with ESPN concerning a potential 24-team playoff field.
  • Sarkisian hopes expansion will reward teams for playing difficult nonconference schedules.
  • Big Ten and SEC officials face a December 1 deadline to agree on the future playoff structure.
  • Texas finished outside the 12-team playoff last year following a 9-3 regular season.
Latest Updates
  • 8:30 PMYahoo SportsSteve Sarkisan hopes CFP expansion would help, not hurt, more games like Texas vs Ohio State
What they're saying
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ESPN and college football discuss expanding the CFP to 24 teams, and Texas coach Steve Sarkisian hopes that would encourage more high-profile regular-season matchups, not fewer.

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