Full Breakdown
Nick Saban Advocates for Separate Playoff for Group of Five Teams
12/19/2025, 11:37:35 AM
Controversy Over College Football Playoff Selections
The inclusion of Group of Five teams, specifically James Madison University (JMU) and Tulane, in the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP) has sparked significant debate, particularly from prominent figures like Nick Saban. During an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," Saban criticized the decision to allow JMU into the playoff while excluding traditional powerhouses like Notre Dame. He likened this situation to allowing a Triple-A baseball team to compete in the World Series, arguing that it undermines the competitive integrity of the playoff system. “Would we allow the winner of the Triple-A baseball league… in the World Series playoffs? That’s the equivalent of what we do when JMU gets into the College Football Playoff and Notre Dame doesn’t,” Saban stated.
The Current Playoff Structure and Its Implications
The CFP format guarantees spots for the five highest-ranked conference champions, which this year allowed JMU, ranked No. 24, and Tulane, ranked No. 20, to secure playoff positions. In contrast, Notre Dame, which finished the season ranked No. 11, was left out. This decision has led to widespread criticism, with many arguing that the playoff should prioritize teams based on their strength of schedule and overall performance. Saban emphasized that if a team is not in the top 15, it should not be included in the playoffs, regardless of its conference affiliation. “If you’re not in the Top 15, I don’t care what league you play in, you shouldn’t be in the playoffs,” he asserted.
Perspectives from Other Analysts
Urban Meyer, another notable figure in college football, echoed Saban's sentiments, arguing that teams like JMU should not be included without facing tougher competition. Meyer proposed that non-Power Four teams should be required to play a minimum number of games against top-ranked opponents to qualify for the playoffs. “I would mandate that a James Madison, or a non-Power Four, you have to play three programs in the top 50, or you can’t be considered,” Meyer stated. This perspective highlights a growing consensus among analysts that the current playoff structure may need reform to ensure that only the most competitive teams participate.
Criticism of the Current Format
Critics of the inclusion of Group of Five teams argue that it dilutes the quality of the playoff. Many fans and analysts have expressed concerns that allowing teams with weaker schedules to compete for a national title undermines the achievements of more established programs. The debate intensified as JMU prepares to face No. 5 Oregon, where they are significant underdogs, further fueling discussions about the legitimacy of their playoff berth.
Official Responses and Future Considerations
The CFP committee has until January 23, 2026, to consider potential changes to the playoff format, including discussions about expanding to 16 teams. However, the current structure has already faced scrutiny, and Saban's comments may influence future decisions regarding playoff eligibility and the treatment of Group of Five teams. As the playoff unfolds, the outcomes of these first-round games could have lasting implications for the future of college football's postseason structure.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Would you let them in the World Series playoff? That’s the equivalent of what we do when JMU gets into the College Football Playoff, and Notre Dame doesn’t.” — Nick Saban, Former Alabama Head Coach
- “To me, if you're not in the Top 15, I don't care what league you play in, you shouldn't be in the Playoffs.” — Nick Saban, Former Alabama Head Coach
- “I would mandate that a James Madison, or a non-Power Four, you have to play three programs in the top 50, or you can’t, you know, win your conference and win whatever (else), but you can’t be considered,” — Urban Meyer, Former Head Coach
The ongoing debate surrounding the College Football Playoff's structure and the inclusion of Group of Five teams underscores the complexities of balancing tradition with the evolving landscape of college football.
