What the Big Ten’s Leaked 28-team CFP Format Would’ve Looked Like in 2024….

After publicly stumping for a nationally unpopular 16-team College Football Playoff format in Las Vegas, Tony Petitti’s Big Ten office has reportedly leaked a 28-team format with more auto bids.

By Matt Stevens - IlliniGuys Football Writer/Analyst

August 19, 2025

Approximately a month ago Big Ten Conference commissioner Tony Petitti attempted to justify his league’s position centering on automatic bids and not at-large selections for a proposed 16-team College Football Playoff and a devaluing of the selection committee’s responsibility. As Petitti stood at the podium during the first day of Big Ten Football . . .

 

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