During a recent interview, Steve Sarkisian, the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, expressed deep skepticism about the College Football Playoff’s decision to grow from four to twelve teams just a year ago.
He argued that the rapid expansion has shifted the spotlight away from on‑field performance and toward poll rankings, making the postseason feel increasingly reactive rather than merit‑based.
The Case for a Return to Four Teams
Sarkisian’s proposed model would limit the playoff to the champions of the Power Five conferences, ensuring that each automatic qualifier earns its spot through conference dominance rather than subjective rankings.
He warned that further expansion to sixteen or twenty‑four teams would only amplify the influence of media polls and public perception, potentially marginalizing teams that excel in weaker schedules.
While acknowledging that Texas benefited from the 12‑team format in the previous season, Sarkisian maintained that the broader implications for college football’s integrity outweigh any short‑term gains.
Analysts note that his stance faces steep odds, as the playoff’s governing bodies have already committed to the larger format, but his critique has reignited debate over how postseason participants should be chosen.