All hail the kings of college football — and they’re not sitting still.
The College Football Playoff committee has overhauled its selection process for 2025. The focus now? Strength of schedule and a new metric called record strength.
Wins over top-tier teams matter more than ever. Beating up on cupcakes? That barely moves the needle. Worse — lose to a weak opponent, and it’ll cost you.
The new record strength metric digs deeper. It doesn’t just track who you play — it measures how well you perform. Beat strong opponents, and you get rewarded. Lose to them in a close one? The penalty is lighter.
These updates kick in as the CFP sticks with its 12-team format. Weekly rankings begin Nov. 4, with the final bracket out Dec. 7.
The SEC Responds — and Raises the Stakes
In classic SEC fashion, the conference isn’t just adapting. It’s doubling down.
Starting in 2026, SEC teams will play nine conference games instead of eight. That move helps preserve rivalries, create balanced schedules, and prepare teams for the postseason gauntlet.
And beginning next season, every SEC team must schedule at least one non-conference game against another Power Five opponent — or Notre Dame. That’s not optional. It’s about proving strength, not just padding win columns.
Commissioner Greg Sankey made it clear: These changes are directly tied to the CFP’s shift toward tougher scheduling standards.
More Quality Games, More CFP Power
This strategy positions SEC programs to dominate under the new rules.
More high-caliber matchups mean more chances to climb the rankings. Teams that face real competition — and win — will be rewarded. Those who avoid challenges? Not so much.
With fewer perks for easy wins and steeper costs for bad losses, the SEC is forcing its teams to raise the bar. That means up to three more meaningful games each season — all potential résumé builders.
Translation: The SEC’s top dogs are getting even sharper teeth.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the positions of The Rivalry Report.