At the recent SEC Spring Meetings, Auburn’s newly appointed head coach Alex Golesh found himself fielding questions about the growing conversation around expanding the College Football Playoff.
Playoff Expansion Debate
The ACC, Big 12 and Big Ten have each voiced support for a 24‑team format, arguing that a larger field would increase revenue and give more programs a shot at the national stage.
SEC commissioner Greg Sankey, however, has indicated a preference for keeping the playoff at no more than 16 teams, citing concerns about diluting the regular season’s significance.
Golesh, whose primary mission is to reverse a streak of five consecutive losing seasons, said the playoff discussion is far down his list of priorities.
He reflected on Auburn’s nearest brush with a championship in 2017, when the team entered the SEC Championship Game ranked second before a 28‑7 loss to Georgia ended its title hopes.
The coach also noted that he hopes his perspective will eventually resonate with fans and analysts alike.
Rebuilding the program will require getting the Tigers above .500 and restoring a competitive edge that can contend for championships in the future.