College Football Playoff overreactions: Despite first-round blowouts, 12-team format does not need overhaul

In an article dedicated to overreactions, it seems odd to preach patience. But the overwhelming sentiment after the first round of the new-look College Football Playoff is that 12 teams is too many. 

If anything, this past weekend’s slate expanded the current gulf between the haves and the have-nots. All of the expected winners — traditional college football heavyweights Notre Dame, Penn State, Texas and Ohio State — all cruised to victory against overmatched opponents. 

None of the four first-round games were ever really in doubt. All were decided by at least two possessions. It was a rough debut for the ballyhooed format and, naturally, it sparked much derision on social media.

People were quick to bemoan playoff expansion. That’s the reality we live in, though, and if anything, more teams will be added before the playoff ever has a chance to contract. And, honestly, it’s always been like this. 

The four-team College Football Playoff had 20 so-called first-round games. They were decided by an average of 17 points per game. 

At least the 12-team playoff provides plenty of tertiary benefits outside of the games. The 2024 regular season was, without a doubt, one of the greatest years in this sport’s history. A big reason for that is the fact that more teams actually had something to play for as the year wore on. An expanded field means more opportunity, even if that opportunity leads to a first-round exit in blowout fashion. 

Plus, home playoff games are an incredible addition. All of the atmospheres were electric and it’s an experience unlike anything college football has ever seen. 

There’s still three rounds for the 12-team playoff to redeem itself. Quarterfinal matchups like Notre Dame and Georgia in the Sugar Bowl…

Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/college-football-playoff-overreactions-despite-first-round-blowouts-12-team-format-does-not-need-overhaul/

Author : Will Backus

Publish date : 2024-12-22 14:15:00

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