In 2022 the NCAA football community was shocked when the Playoff Committee announced the new playoff format. The playoff will include the top 12 teams, a jump from the previous amount, which was 4 teams. Numbers 1 through 4 will have first round byes, leaving seeds 5 through 12 to play each other in the first round. The higher seeds in the first round matchup will host games, creating an electric atmosphere. 

Due to the controversy of last season, the selection process has changed: The five highest ranked conference champions will earn an automatic spot in the playoff. Prior to this change, controversy was rampant throughout the college football community. A majority of the decisions made in the committee were opinion based, leaving deserving teams out of the picture. An example of this is Florida State, the team who went undefeated but got left out of the playoff due to the lack of strength in their schedule. 

With the new format, teams that typically get left out get their chance to play on the playoff stage, including Miami FL(6-0), Iowa State(6-0), and Tennessee(5-1). These teams are currently in the top 12, and if their season remains successful, they would get in the playoffs. Some other teams that are outside of the top 12 include BYU, Boise State, and Indiana. If their success continues, some of these teams may get a spot. 

The new decisions have made most teams happy, as well as increasing support amongst fans. Both big and small schools will get notice, and this season is sure to be filled with interesting storylines.