Big 12 commissioner settled for letting BYU, others play in affiliated lower-rung bowls rather than fight for at least one more spot in the College Football Playoff.

In the evolving landscape of college football, the Big 12 Conference, under Commissioner Brett Yormark, has faced significant challenges regarding postseason placements for its teams, including Brigham Young University (BYU). The introduction of the 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) system was anticipated to provide enhanced opportunities for Power Five conferences like the Big 12. However, recent developments have led to debates about the perceived inequities in playoff selections and bowl assignments.

Big 12’s Position in the CFP Rankings

As the 2024 season progressed, the Big 12’s top teams, such as Arizona State and Iowa State, both with commendable 10-2 records, found themselves ranked outside the top 12 in the CFP rankings. This positioning was notably behind three Southeastern Conference (SEC) teams with three losses each: Alabama, Mississippi, and South Carolina. Commissioner Yormark expressed his dissatisfaction with these rankings, emphasizing the strength of the Big 12 and advocating for its champion to receive a first-round bye over any Group of Five (G5) champion. He highlighted the rigorous schedules and performances of Big 12 teams compared to those from other conferences. citeturn0search8

BYU’s Bowl Placement

BYU, after a strong season finishing at No. 13 nationally, found itself on the cusp of CFP inclusion. Despite their efforts, the Cougars were assigned to the Alamo Bowl, where they delivered a commanding performance against Colorado. This outcome underscored the challenges faced by Big 12 teams in securing coveted playoff spots, even with impressive records. citeturn0search7

Commissioner’s Advocacy and the CFP Selection Process

Commissioner Yormark has been vocal about the need for transparency and fairness in the CFP selection process. He has sought explanations regarding the committee’s decisions, especially when teams with similar or lesser records from other conferences received higher rankings or more favorable bowl placements. This advocacy reflects a broader concern about the metrics and criteria used in the selection process, aiming to ensure that conferences like the Big 12 receive equitable consideration. citeturn0search11

Future Implications for the Big 12 and BYU

The current dynamics within the CFP system have prompted discussions about potential reforms to ensure a more balanced representation of conferences. For BYU and other Big 12 members, these developments highlight the importance of strategic scheduling, consistent performance, and continued advocacy at the administrative level. The goal remains to secure equitable opportunities in the postseason, reflecting the competitive spirit and achievements of the conference’s teams.

In conclusion, while the Big 12, under Commissioner Yormark’s leadership, continues to navigate the complexities of the CFP landscape, the experiences of teams like BYU emphasize the ongoing need for a fair and transparent selection process that duly recognizes the accomplishments of all conferences.