The College Football Playoff is considering the 5+11 format starting in 2026. Learn more about the format and what it means for the future of the CFP.
What Is The 5+11 CFP Format?
CFP 5+11 model gaining traction among leaders – but big decisions loom with the clock ticking … my story from last day of @SEC spring meetings https://t.co/tCiMlRx4p6
— Heather Dinich (@CFBHeather) May 29, 2025
The College Football Playoff expanding to 16 teams is a matter of when, not if.
The eventual move to 16 teams means a new format must be introduced.
Enter 5+11. In this format, the five highest-ranked conference champions would earn automatic bids. Then, the next 11 teams would be chosen via at-large bids.
Per ESPN’s Heather Dinich, one of the keys to expansion involves the SEC’s conference schedule. The SEC must decide if the league will keep their league games at eight or add one to make nine.
Before any expansion, the conference commissioners want more clarity on how the CFP selection committee will determine its rankings, with the strength of schedule being a major point of contention.
The FBS commissioners and Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua must determine the format for the 2026 College Football Playoff by December 1.
2025 College Football Playoff Changes Seeding Model
The 12-team College Football Playoff will move to a straight seeding model this fall, rewarding t… – via @ESPN App https://t.co/TMzDuRBneD
— Heather Dinich (@CFBHeather) May 22, 2025
The 2025 College Football Playoff will remain at 12 teams. However, the seeding model will change.
The 2024 CFP awarded the top four seeds to the highest-ranked conference champions. Those teams then received first-round byes.
The 2025 CFP will move to a straight seeding model. Now, the top four teams in the selection committee’s poll will be seeded one through four. Those teams will receive first-round byes.
Notre Dame can now earn a top-four seed starting in 2025.
The five highest-ranked conference champions will be guaranteed a spot in the CFP.
