What happened: The College Football Playoff will expand its format from 12 to 24 teams beginning in the 2027 season. The change accompanies an agreed five-year broadcast deal with ESPN valued at nearly $1.7 billion.

Why it matters: Doubling the postseason bracket creates extensive access for bubble contenders and reshapes the late-season calendar. The structure also delivers major revenue growth to participating conferences while altering traditional bowl arrangements.

What to watch: Officials will determine bracket mechanics, campus hosting rules, and schedule slots ahead of the 2027 rollout.