College Football’s 24-Team Playoff Draws DeSantis’ Criticism

The College Football Playoff will grow from 12 to 24 teams in 2027, a change DeSantis said could put short-term earnings ahead of the sport’s traditions. He argued on X that a larger field would weaken what makes college football distinctive.

Critics of expansion say it could make regular-season results less consequential and diminish the importance of conference title games and bowl games. DeSantis had also called for changes to college football in December 2025, citing issues including playoff selection, the transfer portal, name, image and likeness rules, scheduling deadlines and the future of bowl games.

The decision also signals the end of annual championship games for the ACC, SEC, Big Ten and Big 12. Each conference has said its 2026 game will be its last. The Big 12’s final championship is scheduled for December 4 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas; the Big Ten’s is set for December 5 in Indianapolis.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey described the league’s championship as a long-standing event, with its final edition marking the 35th game. Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti thanked Indianapolis and its partners for hosting the event since 2011. The ACC also confirmed that its 2026 game will be the conference’s final annual edition.

DeSantis’ criticism was echoed by Congressman Chip Roy, who said the decision put money ahead of what makes the game great. Fans also questioned the size of the playoff field, with some favoring a 16-team format instead.