The ongoing debate surrounding the expansion of the College Football Playoff (CFP) to include 24 teams has sparked intriguing discussions among coaches and fans alike. While the proposal aims to engage more fan bases and create a larger platform for college football, it also raises questions about the impact on individual programs, particularly those that have consistently dominated the scene.
One such program is Ohio State, a powerhouse in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Ohio State's head coach, Ryan Day, has expressed his thoughts on the matter, highlighting the potential benefits and drawbacks for his team.
The Pros and Cons of a 24-Team CFP
Day acknowledges that a 24-team CFP would be a boon for college football as a whole, offering more teams a chance to compete on a national stage and keeping fan bases engaged later into the season. However, when it comes to Ohio State's interests, the situation becomes more complex.
If the 24-team format had been in place since 1998, Ohio State would have made the playoff in an impressive 26 out of 28 seasons. This dominance raises the question: does Ohio State really need the expanded format to maintain its success?
The Broader Impact
The proposed expansion has broader implications for the sport. Dan Lanning, head coach of Oregon, another frequent CFP participant, agrees that while it may not directly benefit his team, it is a positive step for college football.
Lanning draws a parallel with March Madness, the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Tournament, which has successfully created a culture of excitement and engagement around college basketball. He believes a similar effect could be achieved with a larger CFP, enhancing the sport's appeal and creating more opportunities for teams and players.
The Challenge of Winning It All
However, Day's concern lies in the increased difficulty of winning a national championship with more teams in the mix. With a four-team playoff, Ohio State only needed to win two games. But with 24 teams, the path to the title becomes longer and more challenging, especially with the emphasis on earning a top seed to secure a bye and an easier route to the final.
The Seeding Strategy
The seeding system in a 24-team CFP would be crucial. Lanning highlights the value of being the top seed, which would likely encourage teams to fight harder to maintain their position and avoid slipping down the rankings. This strategy could prevent coaches from resting starters late in the season, as the potential consequences of a lower seed would be significant.
Final Thoughts
While a 24-team CFP may offer more opportunities and engagement, it also raises the bar for teams like Ohio State, making their quest for a national championship even more challenging. As Day continues to ponder the proposed format, the debate over the benefits and drawbacks for individual programs versus the sport as a whole remains a fascinating topic of discussion.
