IRVING, Texas — The College Football Playoff announced Saturday that talks are continuing with broadcast partner ESPN after the end of a special negotiating window over media rights for a possible doubling of the size of the playoff field from 12 to 24 teams.
The CFP statement came a day after the original 30-day window expired. ESPN’s new deal that begins this year is worth $7.8 billion over six seasons, and gives the network first choice to add the first two games in any playoff expansion.
“The communication through the window has been helpful, and we will take those discussions forward with ESPN as we determine the way forward,” the CFP statement said. “Given the confidential nature of these discussions, there is nothing more to share at this time. We will provide additional updates when appropriate.”
Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti said Thursday he was hopeful the CFP would expand to 24 teams during ESPN’s special negotiating window, but he also indicated then that the deadline would be extended.
The main obstacle to doubling the size of the CPF from 12 to 24 teams is to make up the revenue lost by eliminating conference championship games to accommodate the additional playoff games, and whether ESPN – alone or with other media partners – can put together a financial package that makes sense in the remaining time.
The playoff expanded from four to 12 teams in 2024, but after executives failed to reach an expansion agreement, the CFP is using the same model for this season. There is a deadline to make any changes for the next season.
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