College Football Playoff triggers 30-day window to negotiate expanding the field to 24 teams

The College Football Playoff has triggered a 30-day negotiating window with ESPN, it announced Tuesday. The decision is intended to clarify financial considerations as the group considers expansion to 24 teams and represents a significant first step.

The mandatory negotiating window allows ESPN exclusive rights to discuss firm terms with the College Football Playoff.

"The CFP has decided to move forward in its evaluation of potential Playoff expansion to 24 teams by beginning a media rights discussion with ESPN," the CFP said in a statement. "This does not represent a decision or commitment to expand, but rather an opportunity to engage with ESPN and gather additional information to help determine a path forward. The CFP will provide additional updates when appropriate."

The playoff has a formal deadline of Dec. 1 to decide whether to expand for the 2027 season. If no agreement is made, the CFP field will remain at 12 teams for the 2027 season. The 30-day window being triggered will allow time for ESPN to present its offer and, potentially, for the playoff to go to market and field offers from other companies.

The Big Ten has continued to push for a 24-game College Football Playoff field, while…

Original source: https://www.cbssports.com/