Kirby Smart Advocates for Expanding College Football Playoff
In Gainesville, Georgia's head coach Kirby Smart is making waves with his strong support for expanding the College Football Playoff. Currently set at 12 teams, Smart believes increasing the number to 16 or even 24 could be a game-changer for fans and the sport itself.
Speaking at the FWAA Freshman All-American and Steve Spurrier Awards, Smart emphasized how expansion could reignite excitement among college sports fans. “I think 24 teams is good for the fan bases,” he said, pointing out that the current landscape demands more than just a good season - it’s all about making the playoffs.
Smart highlighted the shift in fan expectations. The traditional bowl system, once a reward for a successful season, no longer satisfies the hunger for playoff contention.
Fans want more, and athletic directors see financial benefits in meeting those demands. “They can be much more financially efficient if their fan base is rewarded with the playoffs,” Smart noted.
From an economic perspective, Smart, an alumnus of UGA’s Terry College of Business, explained that even a playoff appearance can boost revenue. It’s not just about chasing a national championship; it’s about the ripple effect on ticket sales and concessions. “They’re going to sell their tickets at a higher rate,” he explained, seeing it as an opportunity to enhance the overall fan experience.
The impact of football success extends beyond the gridiron. Increased revenue from football can support other sports within the athletic department, ensuring their survival and growth. “Those dollar increases allow for other sports on campus to survive,” Smart added.
However, the path to expansion isn’t without hurdles. The SEC and Big Ten have struggled to reach a consensus on whether a 16- or 24-team playoff is the right move.
Smart acknowledges the challenges, noting the potential risk of diluting the competition. “Somewhere in there, you are giving out free inventory that maybe hasn’t been earned,” he said, but he views it as a necessary evolution.
For now, the playoff remains at 12 teams, but discussions are ongoing. The Big Ten has floated a proposal for a 24-team playoff, which would notably eliminate conference championship games. This idea has sparked debate, especially within the SEC.
Chris Doering, an SEC Network analyst, supports the 24-team expansion, particularly given the SEC’s upcoming nine-game conference schedule. “We’re involved in cannibalism here in the SEC,” Doering remarked, highlighting the depth of talent in the league. He believes a larger playoff could allow the SEC to showcase its strength, potentially placing eight to ten teams in the mix.
As the SEC Spring Meetings approach, the playoff format is poised to be a hot topic. With media days on the horizon, expect lively discussions on the future of college football’s postseason.