College football fans react to hypothetical 24-team CFP field as expansion talks loom

The College Football Playoff (CFP) faces potential changes as discussions intensify around a proposed 24-team format. A hypothetical bracket shared by "The Next Round" podcast suggests automatic bids for the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, and SEC, with each receiving four guaranteed spots. This proposal comes as conference commissioners prepare to meet in Miami to discuss the 2026 postseason structure.

Currently, a 12-team format is in place, but the future remains uncertain due to differing opinions among leaders. Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti is reportedly leveraging a 24-team model to gain more access, while SEC commissioner Greg Sankey is open to a 16-team format but cautious about further expansion.

The proposal has sparked mixed reactions, with concerns about the impact on the regular season and fairness in team selection. The CFP's decision-makers face a deadline of January 23, 2026, to finalize the future format, with a crucial meeting set for January 18. Meanwhile, the