Greg Sankey's 5+11 CFP Model Update: Reactions From SEC Coaches

David

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Post on May 29, 2025

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Greg Sankey's 5+11 CFP Model Update: SEC Coaches React

The college football landscape shifted significantly with Greg Sankey's recent updates regarding the proposed 5+11 College Football Playoff (CFP) expansion model. While the 12-team format remains the target, the specifics – particularly the automatic qualifying (AQ) bids – have sparked debate and diverse reactions, especially within the SEC, a conference known for its powerhouse programs. Sankey's adjustments, prioritizing conference champions and potentially altering the selection process, have sent ripples through the coaching ranks.

The 5+11 Model: A Quick Recap

The proposed 5+11 model aims to expand the CFP from four to twelve teams. Five conference champions automatically qualify, regardless of their ranking. The remaining seven spots are filled by the highest-ranked teams in the CFP rankings, irrespective of conference affiliation. This change directly addresses concerns about deserving teams being left out of the playoff due to a lack of automatic qualification.

SEC Coaches Weigh In: A Spectrum of Opinions

The SEC, boasting several consistently top-ranked teams, has a vested interest in the success and fairness of the CFP expansion. Reactions from SEC coaches to Sankey's updated model have been varied, reflecting the complexities of the new system:

Supportive Voices: Some coaches see the 5+11 model as a fair compromise, acknowledging the importance of rewarding conference champions while still maintaining competitive meritocracy. The emphasis on conference titles could boost the overall prestige of regular-season games, potentially leading to a more engaging regular season for fans. This model is seen by some as preventing scenarios where multiple highly-ranked teams from a single powerhouse conference dominate the playoff, potentially at the expense of deserving teams from other conferences.

Concerns and Criticisms: Other coaches have voiced concerns about the potential for bias in the selection committee's choices. Seven at-large bids still leave room for subjective interpretation, leading to the possibility of controversial selections. Questions remain about how the selection committee will balance the achievements of high-ranking non-conference champions against other equally deserving teams. The perception of potential favoritism towards specific conferences, even with the AQ system in place, is a concern many coaches have raised privately. The potential for committee bias remains a significant point of contention.

The Impact on Recruiting and Player Development: The new model's potential impact on recruiting is a significant factor. With a greater chance of reaching the CFP, even for non-powerhouse conference champions, more players might consider attending schools outside of the traditional power conferences. This could reshape the college football landscape significantly, potentially increasing parity between conferences.

Looking Ahead: Uncertainties and Future Debates

The 5+11 model, while a step forward, is far from settled. Further discussion and refinement are likely, particularly regarding the selection committee's decision-making process and the criteria used for selecting at-large bids. The debate surrounding the fairness and transparency of the CFP selection process is likely to continue, and further adjustments might be necessary to ensure the long-term success and fairness of the expanded playoff.

What are your thoughts on the 5+11 model? Share your opinions in the comments below!

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