Report: College Football Playoff Nearing Deal To Expand To 24 Teams In 2027

The College Football Playoff is reportedly closing in on a deal to expand from 12 to 24 teams beginning with the 2027 season.

According to [ESPN's Pete Thamel and Heather Dinich](LINK the new format is expected to be finalized in the near future, pending final approvals.

The CFP is also finalizing an agreement with ESPN for the additional playoff games through the 2031 season, which would align with the network's existing television deal.

Under the proposed 24-team format, 19 spots would go to at-large selections, with four automatic bids for Power Four conference champions and one reserved for the highest-ranked Group of Six team.

The top eight seeds would receive first-round byes, with the first two rounds played on campus before the quarterfinals and semifinals move to the New Year's Six bowls.

The expansion could also bring an end to traditional conference championship games, including the SEC Championship, to make room for the additional playoff games.

The College Football Playoff expanded from four to 12 teams in 2024. If approved, the new format would double the field after just three seasons under the current system.