John Mateer #10 of the Oklahoma Sooners runs in the second half against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium on November 01, 2025 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Getty Images

Imagine, the also-ran ACC and pedestrian Big 12 being potentially in line for two bids.

SEC schools like Missouri and Tennessee having a shot at the College Football Playoff.

Michigan, without one win of significance, being a contender. Punchless Iowa thinking it has a shot, and actually being right.

That’s what an expanded 16-team playoff would include. That’s what the powers-that-be apparently want, either next year or at some point soon. If anything, this season should be a loud statement that the sport doesn’t need expansion.

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