In a major shift ahead of the 2024 college football season, the College Football Playoff (CFP) will adopt a straight seeding model for its 12-team bracket, the CFP management committee announced Thursday. This change means the four highest-ranked teams in the final CFP rankings — regardless of conference affiliation — will now earn the top seeds and first-round byes.
The move departs from last season’s model, which prioritized conference championships, granting the top four seeds to the highest-ranked league winners. Under the new system, powerhouse independents like Notre Dame can now earn a bye if they land in the top four.
“This change better reflects actual performance across the season,” said CFP executive director Rich Clark. “It balances access for conference champs with rewarding the best teams.”
The five highest-ranked conference champions will still be guaranteed playoff spots. Financially, the CFP will uphold its previous $8 million commitment to the four top conference champions, ensuring no short-term revenue loss for programs.
Last season saw teams like Boise State and Arizona State earn top-four seeds despite being ranked outside the top eight. Under this new model, teams like Oregon, Georgia, Texas, and Penn State would have claimed those top spots.
The committee continues discussions on long-term playoff structure beyond 2025.
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