Fans of the University of Notre Dame are expressing strong dissatisfaction following the team’s exclusion from the College Football Playoff (CFP). The school’s supporters are calling for immediate reforms to what they view as a flawed selection process. In response, college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit has proposed expanding the playoff field to include 16 teams, offering a potential solution to the ongoing debate.
Speaking to TMZ Sports on March 12, 2024, Herbstreit emphasized the need for change within the current framework, which allows only 12 teams to compete. He argued that increasing the number to 16 would ensure a more inclusive and competitive playoff system. “I think the only way it gets fixed is you gotta expand,” he stated.
Herbstreit also addressed the concerns surrounding the inclusion of teams from the “Group of 5,” which consists of five non-Power 4 conferences: the American Athletic Conference (AAC), Conference USA (C-USA), Mid-American Conference (MAC), Mountain West, and Sun Belt. Currently, these conferences receive one guaranteed bid to the playoff. Herbstreit believes that the criteria for their participation should be adjusted.
“The other thing is, I think the Group of 5, while it’s great to have them involved, I feel like they have to get to a certain ranking to be able to qualify,” he explained. Herbstreit acknowledged the charm of “Cinderella stories” but insisted that the goal should be to select the best 16 teams for the tournament. He noted that leaving out prominent programs, such as Texas, Notre Dame, Vanderbilt, and BYU, undermines the integrity of the competition.
In light of their exclusion, Notre Dame has taken the notable step of withdrawing from bowl contention, effectively concluding their season. This decision has drawn criticism, with some questioning the fairness of their move. Herbstreit defended the team’s choice, suggesting that it reflects their disappointment and the need for a more equitable system.
As the conversation around the College Football Playoff evolves, Herbstreit’s proposal adds a new dimension to an ongoing discussion about fairness and representation in college football. With major programs feeling sidelined and fans demanding change, the pressure is mounting for the College Football Playoff Committee to reconsider its approach.
The 2024 season may serve as a pivotal moment, as stakeholders look to address these pressing issues and work towards a solution that satisfies both fans and teams. As Herbstreit aptly puts it, “If you qualify, great; if you don’t, you’re out.” The upcoming months will reveal whether these proposed changes will gain traction and lead to a more inclusive playoff framework.
