The ongoing evolution of the College Football Playoff (CFP) format has sparked considerable debate, particularly regarding its implications for various conferences. Commissioner Tony Petitti's proposed 4-4-2-2-1 model, while seemingly offering a guaranteed pathway for more leagues, presents a nuanced disadvantage for conferences like the Big 12, and by extension, teams such as Iowa State.

Under the 4-4-2-2-1 structure, which allocates four automatic bids to the top four conference champions, followed by a tiered selection process, the Big 12 would indeed secure a guaranteed slot. However, this guarantee comes at a potential cost: a reduced opportunity for multiple teams from the same conference to qualify. For a league striving for broader representation, this format could be limiting.

Contrast this with a "5+11" model, often discussed as a potential alternative, which would likely allow for five automatic qualifiers and eleven at-large bids. Such a structure would significantly increase the chances of a strong Big 12, even if its champion isn't among the absolute elite, to place several teams into the expanded playoff field. Iowa State, for instance, a program that consistently competes for top-tier finishes within the Big 12, would find its path to the playoff more accessible as a strong at-large contender under a "5+11" system, even if they don't win the conference title.

While the 4-4-2-2-1 model ensures a presence, it paradoxically constrains the Big 12's overall playoff footprint, making it less advantageous for the conference to maximize its representation compared to a more open at-large heavy format.

 

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

Monarch Money
Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE at www.monarchmoney.com/lockedoncollege for 50% off your first year.

FanDuel
Right now, new customers can get ONE HUNDRED FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.