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SEC's Sankey Stands Firm on CFP Expansion
31 May
Summary
- Greg Sankey resists pressure for 24-team CFP expansion.
- SEC seeks more data before playoff format changes.
- Big Ten leads in conference revenue and championships.

Amidst significant shifts in college athletics, SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey is adopting a deliberate approach to major decisions, particularly the expansion of the College Football Playoff. While many leagues, including the Big Ten, ACC, Big 12, and Group of Six, are advocating for a 24-team playoff, Sankey favors a more conservative expansion to 16 teams. He emphasizes the need for comprehensive data and careful analysis of potential unintended consequences before committing to changes.
Concerns extend beyond playoff mathematics, encompassing player health, scheduling conflicts with the NFL, and the timing of critical recruiting events like Early Signing Day and the transfer portal. The potential elimination of the SEC Championship game, a significant revenue generator, is also a consideration. The Big Ten currently leads in conference revenue and recent national championships, a shift from past SEC dominance.
Despite the changing landscape, Sankey asserts that the SEC remains the most competitive football league, citing narrow margins in recent close games. He is committed to ensuring the league's continued success and readiness for future transformations within college sports.