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Archived story · published November 9, 2026. Coverage reflects reporting at the time. See today's brief

Sports · November 9, 2026

Sources: CFP, ESPN ink 5-year, $1.7B deal to expand field to 24 teams

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The College Football Playoff (CFP) and ESPN have reached a five-year, $1.7 billion agreement to expand the playoff field to 24 teams beginning in 2027. Under the new deal, ESPN will remain the exclusive broadcast partner for the postseason tournament. The expanded format reportedly includes five automatic bids—awarded to the champions of the Power Four conferences and the highest-ranked Group of Five team—alongside 19 at-large bids. A significant change accompanying the expansion is the reported elimination of Power Four conference championship games. CFP officials cited a desire to increase participation opportunities for programs and student-athletes, while critics and some segments of the fan base have voiced concerns over the impact on the sport's traditions and the prioritize of broadcast revenue.

Read the original coverage

Reported by multiple outlets

  • The CFP and ESPN reached a five-year, $1.7 billion deal.
  • The playoff field will expand to 24 teams.
  • The new format begins in 2027.
  • ESPN remains the exclusive broadcast partner.
  • The expansion includes five automatic bids (Power Four champions and one Group of Five team) and 19 at-large spots.

Reported by only some outlets

  • Conference championship games for the Power Four will be eliminated.
  • The deal adds an average of $345 million annually to ESPN's existing $1.3 billion annual payment.
  • The decision to expand was announced on a Monday.
  • CFP Executive Rick Clark stated that fan sentiment against expansion was considered but that officials decided to move forward regardless.

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