Kirby Smart On CFP Expansion: Majority Of SEC Coaches Support 5+11 Plan

David

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Post on Jul 17, 2025

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Kirby Smart Backs Expanded College Football Playoff: SEC Coaches Favor 5+11 Model

The debate surrounding College Football Playoff (CFP) expansion has raged for years, but a significant development has emerged from within the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Kirby Smart, head coach of the reigning national champion Georgia Bulldogs, has publicly voiced his support for an expanded playoff, specifically endorsing the proposed 5+11 model. This endorsement carries significant weight, bolstering the momentum behind a significant restructuring of the college football postseason.

SEC Coaches Unite Behind 5+11 Plan

Smart's statement isn't an isolated incident. He's revealed that a majority of SEC coaches are in favor of the 5+11 model, which would feature the top five conference champions automatically qualifying for the CFP, alongside six at-large bids. This structure aims to balance representation from various power conferences with the meritocratic selection of the best teams nationwide. This unified stance from within the SEC, a conference known for its fiercely competitive landscape, adds considerable pressure on the CFP committee to adopt a revised format.

Why the 5+11 Model Holds Appeal

Several factors contribute to the appeal of the 5+11 model among SEC coaches, and indeed many across the country:

• Increased Access: The expanded field offers more opportunities for teams outside the traditional powerhouses to compete for a national championship. This addresses concerns about fairness and ensures a more inclusive playoff.
• Rewarding Conference Champions: Guaranteeing automatic bids for the top five conference champions recognizes the value of conference dominance and incentivizes strong regular season performances.
• Balancing Merit and Conference Representation: The inclusion of at-large bids ensures that truly exceptional teams, regardless of conference affiliation, aren't overlooked. This blend aims to find a happy medium between pure meritocracy and acknowledging conference success.
• Potential for Increased Revenue: A larger playoff naturally generates increased television revenue, benefiting all participating conferences and their member institutions. This financial aspect is a crucial driver in the ongoing negotiations.

Challenges and Counterarguments Remain

While the 5+11 model enjoys considerable support, it's not without its detractors. Some argue that an excessively large playoff dilutes the prestige of reaching the championship game. Concerns remain about the potential for lower-ranked teams to sneak in, potentially creating mismatches in the early rounds. Finding the optimal balance between inclusivity and competitive integrity remains a delicate task.

The Road Ahead for CFP Expansion

The CFP Management Committee is currently reviewing various expansion proposals. While no final decision has been announced, the strong support from influential figures like Kirby Smart and the majority of SEC coaches significantly increases the likelihood of a revised format being adopted in the near future. The coming months will be crucial as negotiations continue and the future structure of the College Football Playoff takes shape. Stay tuned for further updates as this critical aspect of college football evolves.

Keywords: College Football Playoff, CFP Expansion, Kirby Smart, SEC, 5+11 Model, College Football, NCAA, playoff expansion, postseason, Georgia Bulldogs, conference champions, at-large bids, national championship

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