Lincoln Riley, the head coach of the USC Trojans, has publicly voiced his support for expanding the College Football Playoff from its current 12‑team configuration to as many as 24 teams. In a recent interview he argued that adding more programs would not lower the standard of play, but instead would keep the sport’s rich traditions and rivalries alive.
Why the Current System Is Under Scrutiny
The playoff has long been limited to a dozen teams, a structure that automatically grants bids to the Power Four conference champions and the highest‑ranked Group of Six team. Critics say this model lags behind the playoff formats used in baseball, basketball and the major professional leagues, where more teams regularly contend for a championship.
The Coalition Backing Expansion
Riley’s stance aligns with a coalition that includes the Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, Pac‑12 and Notre Dame. Each of these conferences has signaled willingness to adopt a 24‑team model that would replace the fixed automatic bids with a broader selection based on overall merit.
Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti is slated to present detailed revenue projections for the 24‑team scenario at the CFP management committee meeting in August. His analysis aims to show how additional playoff games hosted on college campuses could boost attendance and broadcast value.
Implications for Teams on the Bubble
Last season, USC finished at No. 16 in the Selection Committee’s original rankings, a position that placed them outside the automatic qualifying spots. Programs such as Tulane and James Madison advanced instead, illustrating how current rules can push out teams that many believe deserve a chance.
If the proposal moves forward, teams with records like 8‑4 or 9‑3 could receive playoff berths, rewarding programs that invest heavily in their football operations. The discussion also touches on preserving historic rivalries and ensuring that the regular season retains its competitive edge.
Next Steps and Ongoing Debate
Petitti’s upcoming presentation will outline financial models, scheduling adjustments and the potential impact on bowl games, which have traditionally served as rewards for strong seasons. While the 12‑team field will remain unchanged for now, the conversation about a larger playoff continues to gain momentum across the sport’s major conferences.