The landscape of college football is shifting, and not necessarily for the better. As teams navigate the expanded College Football Playoff format, there's a noticeable trend: minimizing risk to secure a spot in the coveted 12-team field.
The magic number seems to be a 10-2 record, prompting teams to avoid challenging matchups that could lead to additional losses. We've already seen intriguing clashes like Texas vs.
Arizona State and Georgia vs. Louisville, but the real buzz surrounds the potential showdown between Alabama and Ohio State.
This high-profile series has been the talk of the town, with rumors swirling about its possible cancellation. Yet, as of now, it's still on the books. However, Alabama's recent scheduling decision has cast doubt on the matchup's future.
On Monday morning, Alabama's Crimson Tide announced a game against Georgia State set for September 2, 2028. This addition is significant because it means Alabama now has four non-conference games lined up for that season, including matchups with Georgia State, UT Martin, Oklahoma State, and Ohio State. Given the SEC's move to a nine-game conference schedule, one of these non-conference games will have to be dropped.
The spotlight is on the games against Ohio State and Oklahoma State, both formidable Power 4 opponents. With Alabama already committed to nine SEC games, the idea of tackling 11 Power 4 teams seems unlikely when they could opt for less challenging competition.
If the Alabama vs. Ohio State series is the one to be axed, it would be a significant blow to college football.
These marquee non-conference games are vital, adding excitement and prestige to the sport. The Playoff committee needs to find ways to encourage such matchups; otherwise, non-conference play risks becoming a mere warm-up for the Power 4.