The inaugural season of the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) has not only generated excitement but also illuminated some crucial aspects of college football that fans and analysts have been eager to discuss. Here are the standout lessons learned from this first year:

On-Campus Playoff Games Shine Bright

It’s no secret that just the atmosphere of college football is unmatched, especially on game days when buildings and streets of college towns burst with vibrant colors and energy. The excitement surrounding the first-round games held on campus was palpable, showcasing the unique culture and spirit these institutions possess. Many fans believe that allowing quarterfinals to be played on campus would enhance the overall experience and fairness, ensuring that loyal supporters aren’t left stranded as they would have to travel for neutral-site games.

Seasons of Redemption Are Possible

Unlike the previous four-team format, the new setup permits teams to recover from setbacks early in the season without being prematurely dismissed from playoff contention. Losing a game, even early on, no longer spells doom. This has led to a more dynamic season where teams, like Notre Dame, can shake off earlier losses and still battle for playoff positioning. It offers an exciting narrative arc, as coaches and players can push to improve instead of facing immediate elimination.

Bigger Brands Triumph, But It’s Not All Predictable

While traditional powerhouses like Alabama and Ohio State are still expected to contend, their paths to the championship now appear more varied. We witnessed teams overcoming September losses to make deep playoff runs, introducing a refreshingly unpredictable element to postseason progression. This aspect not only allowed top-tier talent to shine but also emphasized the significance of resilience among teams and players.

Fan Sentiment on Cinderella Stories Remains Divided

One striking observation was the fan and pundit backlash against lesser-known programs like Indiana and SMU. Many wanted to see these teams fail to validate their skepticism regarding the inclusion of non-traditional powerhouses in the playoff fold. Fans of underdog teams are hoping that the future of the 12-team format fosters a more supportive environment for surprises, similar to March Madness.

Impact on Rivalry Stakes

The stakes surrounding conventional rivalry games are under scrutiny now more than ever. For instance, Ohio State's quest for a national title was not hindered by a loss to Michigan, raising concerns that such rivalries might lose their bite in a competitive landscape that offers more room for error. The joy of these longstanding contests should remain, but now it rests on the teams to keep the fire alive.

Conference Championship Games: Is Their Relevance Declining?

The new playoff format also raised questions about the significance of conference championships, especially when winners are seeded lower than losers from equivalent games. This undermines the competitive spirit of conference match-ups, as their outcomes may not impact playoff selections as strongly as intended.

Seeding System Needs Refinement

A consistent theme in discussions around the new playoff structure is the seeding criteria. With the inclusion of new power conferences and shifting dynamics, it has become clear that adjustments are crucial to ensuring fairness in bracket placements. Teams like Boise State and Arizona State benefited from flawed seeding that didn’t accurately reflect their competition levels. A re-evaluation is essential to prevent disparities from impacting match outcomes.

Timing of the Championship Game Overshadows Impact

Playing the national championship game on January 20 felt anticlimactic for many fans, as the date was overshadowed by NFL playoff action and larger news cycles. This led to a noticeable drop in viewership, suggesting the need for better scheduling to maximize audience engagement.

Collaboration with the NFL is Critical

As the number one sport in America, the NFL needs to collaborate with college football to designate time slots that allow college games to shine. With strategic scheduling, college football could reclaim its spotlight and foster an environment for its playoff games to thrive.

A Changing Landscape

The SEC's absence from the national championship for a second consecutive year signals potential shifts in college football dynamics. The Big Ten has shown remarkable strength, while factors like NIL and the transfer portal contribute to more equitable playing fields across conferences, making for an exhilarating and ever-evolving college football landscape.

In closing, while the 12-team format has been met with some challenges and criticisms, it has undeniably enhanced the overall excitement and competitiveness of college football. Fans and players are eagerly waiting to see how the format continues to evolve, with hopes that necessary adjustments will further improve the experience for everyone involved.