Challenges in Avoiding 'Duds' in the New College Football Playoff System
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The new College Football Playoff (CFP) faces several challenges in ensuring that the games are competitive and engaging. One significant issue is the difficulty in avoiding "duds," or games that are perceived as uninteresting or uncompetitive. This problem arises from several factors:
Scheduling and Matchups: The selection committee must choose the best teams, but the matchups can sometimes lead to lopsided games. For instance, the inaugural 12-team CFP saw Notre Dame easily defeating Indiana 27-17, showcasing a significant disparity in performance. This kind of matchup can lead to a perception that the playoffs are not as thrilling as they could be.
Selection Committee Decisions: The CFP selection committee often faces criticism for its decisions, which can sometimes be seen as biased or inconsistent. This perception undermines public trust and can lead to dissatisfaction with the matchups and the overall playoff system.
Impact of the Transfer Portal: Teams like Indiana, which heavily relied on transfers to improve their roster, can face challenges in maintaining their performance level. When a significant portion of the team consists of seniors who are about to leave, it can create instability and affect their competitive edge in the playoffs.
Public and Media Perception: The public and media often have high expectations for the playoffs, and any perceived misstep by the selection committee or a lackluster game can lead to significant backlash. This pressure to deliver exciting matchups can be challenging to manage.
Evolution of the Playoff System: As college football evolves from an amateur model to a more professional one, the CFP system must adapt to ensure that it remains fair and competitive. This evolution can be chaotic and unpredictable, making it harder to consistently deliver engaging games.
Overall, while the expanded 12-team playoff format aims to increase excitement and fairness, it still faces hurdles in avoiding games that are perceived as duds. The selection process, scheduling, and the impact of roster changes all play significant roles in these challenges.