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College Football Playoff Stays at 12 Teams Until 2026

9/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The College Football Playoff will stay at 12 teams for the 2026 season, per Nicole Auerbach (NBC Sports).
Expansion discussions occurred, but the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Big Ten have not reached consensus and hold significant influence.
A working group of athletics directors is being considered to study formats from 16 to 32 teams, with a Dec. 1, 2026 deadline.

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Story summary

The College Football Playoff will stay at 12 teams for the 2026 season, per Nicole Auerbach (NBC Sports).
Expansion discussions occurred, but the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and Big Ten have not reached consensus and hold significant influence.
A working group of athletics directors is being considered to study formats from 16 to 32 teams, with a Dec. 1, 2026 deadline.