Greg Sankey And The 5+11 CFP Model: A Discussion With SEC Coaches Reveals Concerns

David

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Post on May 29, 2025

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Greg Sankey and the 5+11 CFP Model: SEC Coaches Voice Concerns

The College Football Playoff (CFP) expansion to a 12-team format has been a hot topic, but the specifics, particularly the proposed 5+11 model championed by SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, are causing significant unease among some of the very coaches the system is intended to benefit. Recent discussions reveal a simmering discontent within the SEC ranks regarding the potential implications of this structure.

The 5+11 model, as proposed, would automatically include the six highest-ranked conference champions and six at-large bids, creating a highly competitive and potentially unpredictable field. While the intention is to broaden access and reward more deserving teams, the fear among some SEC coaches is that this very ambition could inadvertently disadvantage the powerhouse conference.

Concerns Raised by SEC Coaches

Several sources close to the SEC coaching community have indicated a level of apprehension regarding the model's impact on the conference's dominance. The key concerns include:

• Increased Competition: The expansion undeniably opens the door for more teams, potentially including Group of Five champions and other power conference teams that might otherwise miss out on a traditional four-team playoff. This boosts competition, but also increases the chances of an SEC team being left out despite a strong season.

• At-Large Bias: The selection of six at-large teams introduces subjectivity and potential bias into the selection process. Coaches fear the possibility of deserving SEC teams being overlooked in favor of teams from other conferences, particularly if the selection committee favors certain programs or narratives.

• Scheduling Implications: The expanded playoff could significantly impact non-conference scheduling. With the increased pressure to secure a strong resume for at-large consideration, teams might prioritize weaker non-conference opponents to pad their winning percentage, potentially diluting the overall quality of the regular season.

• Loss of Control: The perceived loss of control over the playoff narrative is a significant worry. For years, the SEC has enjoyed a disproportionate representation in the CFP, fueling its national prominence. The 5+11 model, with its emphasis on at-large bids, threatens to diminish that control, raising concerns about the conference’s future dominance.

Sankey's Stance and the Path Forward

Commissioner Sankey has consistently defended the 5+11 model, highlighting its commitment to expanding access and rewarding deserving teams across the landscape of college football. He emphasizes the merit-based selection process and aims to ensure a fair and transparent system. However, the concerns raised by some SEC coaches underscore the complexities of implementing such a significant change.

The discussions surrounding the 5+11 model and its potential impact on the SEC highlight a larger debate within college football: balancing tradition and competitive fairness with access and expansion. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the proposed model can address the concerns of coaches and maintain the integrity and excitement of the sport.

Further Reading:

• [Link to an article about the history of the CFP]
• [Link to an article about the selection committee process]

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on the 5+11 CFP model? Share your opinion in the comments below!