Big Ten Commissioner Not Caving to SEC's Push to Change Expanded Playoff Model

Why the Big Ten doesn't want to budge

A major factor in the Big Ten refusing to adopt a "5-plus-11" model is because of the scheduling difference. Currently, the Big Ten plays nine conference games while the SEC plays just eight.

Petitti said the status quo is currently fine, but adopting a model with more at-large bids would create an imbalance between the two leagues. Essentially, it would be a way for the SEC to flex its muscle and earn more spots in the field.

"Each league will decide what they think the best conference schedule is for them. I think in a system where you have allocated spots, talking with our athletic directors and coaches, I don't think they care how many conference games a league is playing," Petitti said. "But when you have a system that's increasing the at-large bids and increasing the work of a selection committee, that's when you need to understand how we're competing in the regular season.

"At the end of the day, it's really simple math: with 18 schools and nine conference games, we're losing nine more games to start. That's really relevant."

So, if the Big Ten were to hop on board with the SEC's proposed model, that league would have to expand to playing nine conference games and create a more level playing field.

Petitti speaks on selection committee

Part of the conversation about the SEC's push for a "5-plus-11" model has centered around the College Football Playoff selection committee not valuing strength of schedule properly. Petitti doesn't believe that was the case this past year, though.

"People have talked about improving the committee's work, I believe they do a great job with what they have," Petitti said. "I have yet to have a committee member tell me that more data will make the job easier. They have a lot of things in front of them."

For the moment, it appears that the SEC and Big Ten have come to a halt in terms of a 16-team playoff format. We'll see if anything changes, on either side, in the near future or if the 12-team model is the long-term solution.

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