The College Football Playoff (CFP) will increase to 12 teams next year, with four rounds of competition. The top four seeds will be the highest-ranked conference champions, earning a first-round bye. However, one issue arises: arranging the first-round games.
One of the opening-round games is slated for Friday, December 20, 2024, with the remaining three games set for Saturday, December 21. The NFL hopes that the CFP will relocate at least one of the Saturday games to Friday. Why? The NFL wishes to avoid competing with the CFP for viewers during their planned Saturday games.
They hope to persuade the CFP to move one game, allowing two games on Friday and two on Saturday. While the CFP seeks to maximize viewership, it must balance the benefits of avoiding competition against the disadvantages of scheduling two games on a Friday. It’s unclear whether this adjustment will take place this year or in the second year of the 12-team playoff.
The College Football Playoff (CFP) is undergoing significant changes, with 12 teams joining next year. During this shift, the NFL has voiced interest in one specific change: relocating one of the CFP’s Saturday opening-round games to Friday. But why is this important, and how can we achieve the appropriate balance between competition and viewership?
NFL’s Strategy
The motivation is clear: they want to maximize viewership without competing directly with the CFP. They believe that by relocating one game, they will create a win-win situation. However, the CFP faces a quandary. Should they shun NFL competition or accept the challenge of scheduling two games on a Friday?
The decision is based on the balance of interests. Both the CFP and the NFL want fans to watch their games. While the CFP strives to preserve its stature and reach, the NFL looks to improve its Saturday lineup. Perhaps a solution can be reached, allowing both leagues to prosper.
As the CFP evolves, so does the delicate balance between sports schedules. Whether this adjustment happens this year or in the future, it emphasizes the complex interplay between competitiveness, audience, and strategic planning.
