Oregon’s head coach Dan Lanning has recently thrown his weight behind a proposal to expand the College Football Playoff from its current 12‑team format to a 24‑team version. He argues that a broader bracket would inject fresh energy into the sport while still honoring on‑field achievement.
Playoff Expansion and Regular‑Season Value
Lanning points to the Ducks’ own recent playoff runs under the 12‑team structure as proof that a larger field could still reward excellence. He believes that adding more teams would not diminish the importance of winning games during the regular season.
The Big Ten, which has captured the last three national championships in both the four‑team and twelve‑team eras, has been championing the expansion for nearly a year. Conference leaders contend that a 24‑team model would amplify their influence and provide more pathways to glory.
Critics worry that a more accessible postseason might dilute the stakes of the regular season, but Lanning counters that the pursuit of a higher seed will keep teams fighting for every win. He maintains that the value of seeding remains a powerful motivator for competitive play.
He also likens the potential shift to the NCAA basketball tournament’s growth to 76 teams, suggesting that increased opportunity can coexist with competitive integrity. The coach sees the expansion as a natural evolution that mirrors successful models in other sports.
A decision on the 24‑team format is slated for early December, with implementation targeted for the 2027 season. Lanning says the timeline will give programs adequate time to adjust schedules, scholarship allocations, and preparation strategies.