Big 12 Commissioner Advocates for CFP Changes During Orange Bowl

During the Orange Bowl on January 1, 2024, Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark discussed potential changes to the College Football Playoff (CFP) format and the college football calendar. Speaking from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, Yormark expressed enthusiasm for his conference and highlighted the importance of Texas Tech’s participation in the game.

Yormark, known for his business acumen, remarked, “The best part of today is I can be a fan.” He donned a red tie, which he humorously noted was “tinted toward burgundy,” as he rooted for the Red Raiders in their quest for success on a national stage. His support for Texas Tech reflects the Big 12’s aim to solidify its status amid a rapidly evolving collegiate sports landscape.

Push for Expanded Playoff Format

In his comments, Yormark reiterated his support for expanding the playoff format from the current 12 teams to 16 teams. He stated that he and other power conference commissioners are expected to meet multiple times before the upcoming January 23 deadline to negotiate an agreement on playoff structure. “We’ll see what we can do — or not — for next year,” Yormark said, emphasizing the collaborative effort among commissioners.

The proposed 16-team model would feature five automatic bids for conference champions. Yormark indicated that discussions would also consider the possibility of including additional on-campus playoff games in the expansion plans. He noted that the first-round games, hosted at the higher seed’s home stadium, have received positive feedback for their atmosphere. “The first round games have been fantastic in every respect,” he stated, adding that the commissioners need to consider if such a model could be extended beyond the initial round.

While Yormark is optimistic about potential changes, he acknowledged the need for stability in the playoff structure. “Hopefully we can come together and, whatever that change may look like, we can get there sooner or later,” he said. “If we stay at 12, I’m happy with that, too.”

Concerns Over the College Football Calendar

In addition to playoff discussions, Yormark addressed concerns about the existing college football calendar, which compresses critical events into a short timeframe. This includes the early national signing period from December 3 to 5, the start of the playoffs on December 19, and the opening of the transfer portal on January 2, culminating with the national championship game on January 19. The compressed schedule has led to challenges in roster management during the postseason.

Coaches across the country, including Texas Tech’s Joey McGuire, have voiced the need for modifications. McGuire proposed that all teams participate in a Week 0 game, allowing a champion to be crowned by January 1 and shifting bowl games to the beginning of the season. Yormark acknowledged the necessity of re-evaluating the calendar, stating, “It’s a little clunky for sure. It needs to probably be modified and we’re going to work on that.”

Yormark expressed confidence in the future of college football governance, particularly regarding the participation agreement between the College Sports Commission (CSC) and universities. Launched in July 2023, the CSC allows schools to make direct payments to athletes, up to $20.5 million. However, the agreement requires all power conference schools to sign off before it can take effect.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has urged universities not to sign the agreement, claiming it grants excessive authority to the CSC. Yormark addressed these concerns, stating, “I’m confident that once we make the necessary adjustments… it will have teeth to it, the participation agreement.” He expressed optimism that all schools will eventually sign, ensuring the CSC’s effectiveness.

As discussions around the CFP and college football calendar evolve, Yormark’s leadership reflects a commitment to adapt and improve the landscape of college athletics.