DeSantis Criticizes 24-Team College Football Playoff Expansion

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis opposed the expansion of the college football postseason on Monday.

The College Football Playoff Committee and ESPN announced that the single-elimination tournament will grow from 12 to 24 teams starting after the 2027 season. The announcement included a new media rights agreement with ESPN worth more than $1 billion over five seasons.

DeSantis described the decision as short-sighted in a social media post. He stated that the move might increase profits in the near term but would further erode what has traditionally made college football special. The governor, who is considered a potential Republican presidential candidate for 2028, made the comments while lawmakers debate regulations for college sports.

Congress has discussed major legislation for months to address issues such as the transfer portal and name, image, and likeness compensation. The Protect College Sports Act passed the Senate this fall, but most observers say it is unlikely to pass before the end of the year. Democrats winning control of both chambers could delay the legislation.

President Trump has urged Congress to pass meaningful laws to address college sports issues. Many in his party have expressed concern about an arms race at top schools fueled by prime time television match-ups. The NCAA, which does not operate the football playoff, announced earlier this year that it would expand its annual men’s and women’s basketball tournaments from 68 to 76 teams.

DeSantis also commented on the recent midterm elections. Last week, he called Republican losses in those elections an extinction level event for the party.