ATLANTA – Rich Clark, the executive director of the College Football Playoff (CFP), is riding high in his first year on the job. The transition to a thrilling 12-team format has brought excitement and engagement to college football like never before. Yet, amidst all the positive changes, there’s one aspect of his role that has left him feeling less than thrilled.
When the topic of public criticism arose, Clark’s demeanor shifted. He expressed disappointment regarding the backlash the 15-member selection committee faced, particularly from influential figures in the sport. Coaches and commissioners, including Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin and ACC and Big 12 leaders Jim Phillips and Brett Yormark, voiced their frustrations openly. “I was disappointed to hear people who know the game and know what the committee is up against criticizing them,” Clark remarked in a recent interview. “I sat through every deliberation, and I know they took it to the mat. They made sure they were making choices that were not parochial.”
Challenges of the Selection Committee
The selection committee’s task is no easy feat. They must navigate a complex landscape of team performances, strength of schedule, and the expectations of fans and stakeholders alike. Clark praised committee chairman Warde Manuel, Michigan’s athletic director, for his skill in facilitating discussions and ensuring that every opinion was considered. “Everything was on the table,” Clark noted, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the scenes.
Despite the challenges, the backlash was somewhat expected. The committee knew they would face scrutiny once the playoff field was announced. However, the intensity and duration of the debates that followed were surprising. Even after the first round of the CFP, discussions continued, and the committee remained in the spotlight long after Selection Sunday.
Clark pointed out the irony of the situation: “I totally agree that they are hurting the committee and hurting the sport when they do that,” he said, referring to the criticisms from coaches and commissioners. “However, I also know they have their constituents to answer to when they levy those criticisms. They are speaking to their base.”
Exciting Developments Ahead
Looking ahead, there’s much to be excited about. The commissioners and Notre Dame’s athletic director are set to meet in Atlanta for 90 minutes to discuss potential tweaks for the 2025-26 playoff format. While immediate changes are unlikely due to the need for a unanimous vote, two key areas are expected to be on the agenda: the seeding process and the format of the first-round games.
“I think almost universally, people liked the first-round games on campus,” Clark shared. “That was a big hit, and people really loved it.” The enthusiasm surrounding these games has sparked discussions about seeding as well. “Universally, people thought we should take a look at how we are seeding,” he added. Over the next couple of months, the commissioners will delve into these topics to determine what, if any, adjustments are necessary.
Navigating the NFL Landscape
Another pressing issue for the CFP is its scheduling. The calendar has become a point of concern, especially with the CFP games running concurrently with the NFL playoffs. This year, two first-round games were held simultaneously with NFL regular-season games, and the CFP semifinals and final were strategically scheduled on Thursday, Friday, and Monday nights to avoid conflicts.
Clark acknowledged the challenges of coexisting with the NFL. “It is not fun, but we just have to coexist,” he stated. “The NFL is an amazing enterprise, and we know their fan draw is huge. But we also have a good draw and fanbase.” He emphasized the importance of presenting compelling matchups for college football fans while also recognizing the need to work with the NFL to create a win-win situation for both leagues.
As the CFP navigates this landscape, the timing of the season is also under scrutiny. Ohio State and Notre Dame both played their final regular-season games 51 days ago, while the NFL has a 35-day gap between its last regular-season game and the Super Bowl. Altering the calendar to wrap up the college football season earlier will likely be a topic of discussion among the commissioners.
Looking Forward
As Clark reflects on his first year, he can’t help but feel a sense of pride in the progress made. The 12-team format has breathed new life into college football, attracting fans and generating excitement. However, the road ahead is not without its challenges. The selection committee’s work is far from over, and the scrutiny they face is a testament to the passion surrounding the sport.
With potential changes on the horizon and a commitment to improving the playoff experience for fans, the future of college football looks bright. As discussions unfold and decisions are made, one thing is clear: the love for the game remains strong, and the CFP is dedicated to making it even better for everyone involved. The journey continues, and fans can look forward to an exhilarating playoff experience in the years to come.
