College Football Playoff reportedly set for major expansion

We've known that expansion was coming to the CFP, but until the Rose Bowl agreed, it was undetermined when that change would occur. 

With Wednesday's news, we have clarification that next season will be the last time we hear arguments over who deserves a spot in the top four.

It doesn't mean there won't be any more debates, however. An argument like the one over whether Alabama or Tennessee should be ranked higher — meaningless in the context of a four-team playoff — would have ramifications on playoff matchups.

It also means a performance like the one LSU had against Texas A&M wouldn't be disqualifying. By winning the SEC championship, the Tigers would automatically secure a bid.

Some think diluting the playoff field will lessen the importance of regular-season games. While there's some truth to that, the stakes for a game like Michigan-Ohio State would still be huge as the loser would be out of the running for a conference championship and first-round bye. In a debate over whether to get rid of divisions in the Big Ten, that may be a reason to keep them in place.

The expanded field with automatic qualifiers could also change how coaches manage their rosters down the stretch. A team that clinches a spot in its conference championship game early will be more likely to rest key players over minor ailments than they would in a four-team playoff.

There are many of reasons to be excited about the expanded playoff, both for the chances it gives more teams to win a title and all its unintended consequences.