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College Football Playoff Format Dispute Looms Before Deadline

1/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The College Football Playoff format remains unresolved as the January 23 deadline approaches.
Tony Petitti, the Big Ten commissioner, advocates for a 24-team playoff.
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) wants to maintain the current 12-team format.
CFP chair Rich Clark says ESPN will not extend the deadline again.
If no agreement by the deadline, the playoff will remain at 12 teams for the 2026 season.

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Story summary

The College Football Playoff format remains unresolved as the January 23 deadline approaches.
Tony Petitti, the Big Ten commissioner, advocates for a 24-team playoff.
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) wants to maintain the current 12-team format.
CFP chair Rich Clark says ESPN will not extend the deadline again.
If no agreement by the deadline, the playoff will remain at 12 teams for the 2026 season.