Notre Dame’s 2026 CFP Impact: Auto-Bids and Money Distribution Changes
The College Football Playoff (CFP) is set to maintain its 12-team format for the 2026 season. This decision comes after SEC and Big Ten leaders failed to reach a consensus on further expansion. Notably, the CFP structure continues to evolve, marking its fourth consecutive year of changes.
Key Changes for the 2026 Season
For the first time in 2026, the CFP will guarantee spots for the champions of the Power 4 conferences. Additionally, there will be a designated spot for the top Group of 6 conference champion. Notre Dame also secured a guaranteed place in the playoff, provided it finishes in the top 12.
Revenue Distribution and Financial Impact
Significant alterations in revenue distribution will accompany these changes. The SEC and Big Ten are set to receive over half of the entire postseason revenue, a notable shift from past practices. This adjustment comes in the wake of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed in the spring of 2024, which established new conditions for the playoffs.
- New CFP revenue distribution model:
- Big Ten: ~29% (over $21 million per school)
- SEC: ~29% (similar to Big Ten)
- ACC: ~17% (around $13 million per school)
- Big 12: ~15% (approximately $12 million per school)
- Group of 6: ~9% (around $1.8 million per school)
Notably, performance bonuses for advancing in the playoffs are being eliminated for most teams. This means that revenue earned will be more standardized going forward. For example, Miami previously earned about $20 million during its recent playoff run, but this figure will shift to a flat amount in future seasons.
Background and Negotiations
The changes were not directly influenced by the 2025 season, which saw Group of 5 conference teams earn two championship spots. Instead, they stem from ongoing negotiations where the Big Ten and SEC leveraged their influence to secure a favorable deal. This agreement supersedes the previous contract, which required unanimous decisions among conference commissioners.
Notre Dame played a pivotal role in securing its own slot in the playoffs, thanks to a strong relationship with both Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti and SEC commissioner Greg Sankey. Interestingly, Notre Dame’s non-conference status remains intact, allowing them to benefit from games against various conferences while maintaining their independence.
Future Outlook
Although the CFP is set to continue with 12 teams for the time being, both the SEC and Big Ten have expressed interest in further expanding the field. Should this occur, additional modifications to the revenue distribution and auto-bid structure may follow.
In conclusion, the changes for the 2026 College Football Playoff mark a significant shift in the landscape of college football. With new auto-bids and a revised revenue model, the impact on teams, especially Notre Dame, will be substantial as the stakes continue to rise.
