In a move that highlights their immense power and ambition, the Big Ten and SEC conferences have joined forces to push for significant changes to the expanded College Football Playoff (CFP) system. Their demands include automatic berths and byes for their top teams in a 14-team bracket set to be implemented in 2026.

Initially, both conferences aimed for four automatic berths each, a step that was perceived as unprecedented. However, they now appear to be willing to settle for three each, on the condition that the Big Ten and SEC are granted the top two seeds and the accompanying byes. It is a clear display of their desire to secure dominance and ensure their teams have the best possible path to the national championship.

This development has stirred conversation about the fairness and transparency of the CFP selection process. Last season's rankings, in particular, raised eyebrows when undefeated Florida State was left out of the top four due to an injured quarterback, while undefeated Liberty secured a New Year's Six bowl despite a weaker schedule compared to AAC champion SMU. The Big Ten and SEC took note and are now seeking to minimize the role of the CFP Selection Committee, whose criteria often fluctuates from season to season.

The proposed changes would have a direct impact on other conferences, namely the ACC and Big 12. Currently, the 12-team structure guarantees automatic bids for the five highest-ranked conference champions, without specifying which leagues. However, the new plan would ensure two bids for both the ACC and Big 12 each season, reflecting the market value of these conferences.

Realignment in recent years has consolidated power within the Big Ten and SEC, resulting in the accumulation of top brands under their umbrella. Inevitably, this has amplified the stakes for these brands to secure a spot in the national championship chase. Doubts surrounding the subjectivity of the committee's decisions have led to a call for automatic qualifiers based on conference standings, aiming to strengthen the regular season and reduce reliance on committees.

While the discussions are currently preliminary, they exemplify the growing discontent with the opaque nature of the CFP process. The Big Ten and SEC are even contemplating the possibility of departing from the NCAA, signaling their frustration with a system they believe is flawed. As conversations become more specific, the pressures surrounding the CFP are expected to intensify.

Ultimately, the Big Ten and SEC's joint venture aims to prioritize achievement and schedule strength over interpretation by committee members. It reflects a strategic approach by Power Five athletic directors who have begun scheduling games accordingly to maximize their teams' chances. This shift in focus could have significant implications for the future of college football.

As the battle for control over the CFP ensues, it is evident that the landscape of college football is on the brink of a major transformation. With powerful entities pushing for change, it remains to be seen how these demands will shape the future of the game and whether the Big Ten and SEC will achieve the desired modifications to the playoff system.