Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti defended his proposed 16-team College Football Playoff format, advocating for automatic berths based on conference standings. This contrasts with the ACC and Big 12's preferred 5+11 model. Petitti's plan includes conference play-in games, ensuring more regular season relevance. The SEC, initially supportive, now disagrees, creating an impasse as the CFP deadline approaches. The Big Ten argues its format increases objectivity and encourages competitive scheduling.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.