College football’s future hinges on a single conference’s decision. After the ACC, Big 12, and Notre Dame signaled support for expanding the College Football Playoff to 24 teams, attention turns to the SEC, whose approval is required under a 2024 agreement among FBS conferences. The current model under discussion would add 12 teams and 12 games, eliminating conference championship games—a move that could cost the SEC up to $100 million in revenue. While other leagues argue expansion offers fairer access and reflects rising investments in football programs, the SEC remains cautious, influenced by its media partner ESPN, which opposes any format beyond 16 teams.

The debate isn’t just financial. Coaches are divided: some support broader access, while others, like Miami’s Mario Cristobal, question the integrity of a 24-team field, warning it could devalue the regular season. The CFP’s selection committee would still rank teams, with the top eight seeds getting byes and automatic bids for Group of Six champions. But uncertainty remains over the fate of non-CFP bowls like the Gator and Alamo Bowls, which could lose prestige and revenue.

A final decision is expected in June after media consultants complete a revenue analysis. The calendar also poses challenges, including the Army-Navy game’s fixed four-hour window. With the SEC’s leadership meeting in late May, the path forward depends on whether financial concerns outweigh the push for inclusivity in college football’s postseason.