CFP Expansion Leads to End of Big Ten Championship Game, Leaving Hole in Indy Tourism Calendar
The move ends a 15-year run at Lucas Oil Stadium and follows the CFP’s expansion to 24 teams, which adds opening-round games in December.
- On Saturday, December 5, 2026, the Big Ten will host its final football championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, ending a 16-year tradition.
- Anticipating the College Football Playoff's expansion to 24 teams, all Power Four conferences plan to scrap their respective championship games following this season, as the new schedule conflicts with traditional early December dates.
- Big Ten Conference Commissioner Tony Petitti expressed gratitude to Indianapolis for hosting the marquee event since 2011, noting the expanded bracket will create "more meaningful games throughout the season for more teams."
- Despite the game's departure, Chief Operating Officer Kerry Kenny stated the league intends to maintain its partnership with Indianapolis, keeping the city in the queue for major events including the men's basketball tournament.
- Georgia head coach Kirby Smart remarked on adapting to the sport's evolution, stating, "As they change, you've got to adapt with it" regarding the shift away from traditional conference title games.
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Eli Drinkwitz sounds off on elimination of SEC Championship game, CFP expansion
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ) One day after the Southeastern Conference announced it is doing away with the SEC Championship game after the 2026 season, Mizzou football coach Eli Drinkwitz gave his thoughts on the matter. "My question is, why are we associated with conferences anymore if we're not playing for a conference championship? I mean, if
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Noah Hiles: An expanded College Football Playoff means more opportunity — and pressure
Many people will tell you it’s things like tradition and school pride that make college football great. They’re not wrong, but neither serve...
The Toronto Star
A 24-team CFP and a single guaranteed spot: Where the Group of Six fits in the new math
As the dust settled following the announcement that the College Football Playoff was expanding to 24 teams beginning next season, there was a hopeful word offered up by virtually everyone within the Group of Six football conferences: Opportunity.
'It was considered': CFP director Rich Clark dismisses 'fan sentiment'
Starting next season, the College Football Playoff will host a 24-team bracket, replacing the current 12-team format. The CFP and ESPN, which will remain the broadcast partner, officially announced the news on Monday. The 2027 season will start earlier, the Selection Day date will change, Power 4 conference championship games will be eliminated, and the…
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