The Big Ten conference is entering a new era of expansion, with 18 schools joining next year and the College Football Playoff expanding to 12 teams. In light of these changes, the Big Ten is considering the possibility of playing non-conference games in November. This article explores the potential advantages and strategic considerations behind this move, as well as its potential impact on the conference's competitiveness in the College Football Playoff.
The Complexity of Reconfiguring the Big Ten Schedule
Exploring the challenges and considerations involved in reconfiguring the Big Ten schedule to accommodate non-conference games in November.
Reconfiguring the Big Ten schedule to accommodate non-conference games in November is a complex process that requires careful consideration. Due to existing non-conference matchups under contract for the opening weeks of future seasons, implementing such changes could take years. Before modeling scenarios, there needs to be enough interest from Big Ten schools and media partners to justify the process.
While the potential benefits of playing non-conference games in November are enticing, the logistical challenges cannot be overlooked. The Big Ten conference office and its stakeholders would need to navigate through contractual obligations and scheduling conflicts to make this strategic move a reality.
Advantages of Late-Season Non-Conference Games
Examining the potential advantages of creating a late-season Saturday for non-conference games in the Big Ten.
Creating a late-season Saturday for non-conference games in the Big Ten could offer several advantages. One key consideration is the ability to schedule traditional rivalries, such as the Apple Cup between Washington and Washington State, or the Oregon-Oregon State matchup, in a more traditional window once the schools are in different leagues.
Additionally, having non-conference games in November could provide a strategic advantage for Big Ten teams aiming to reach the College Football Playoff. By allowing teams to have a respite from the grueling schedule of conference play, they can enter the postseason fresher and better prepared for success.
Learning from the SEC: Balancing Competitiveness and Rest
Examining the SEC's approach to non-conference games in November and its potential impact on the Big Ten.
The SEC has long prioritized keeping its teams fresh for stretch-run showdowns by scheduling non-conference cupcakes on the first Saturday in November. This approach allows SEC teams to maintain their competitiveness while also providing necessary rest and recovery before the College Football Playoff.
The Big Ten, with its expanded schedule and the addition of powerhouse West Coast schools, must carefully consider how to balance competitiveness and rest. By taking a page from the SEC's playbook and incorporating non-conference games in November, the Big Ten can level the playing field and enhance its chances of success in the College Football Playoff.
Strategic Considerations and Impact on College Football Playoff
Exploring the strategic considerations and potential impact of non-conference games in November on the Big Ten's College Football Playoff participation, seeding, and success.
The Big Ten's decision to potentially play non-conference games in November has significant implications for its College Football Playoff aspirations. With the expanded playoff format featuring four rounds, teams that participate in conference championship games and then play in the opening round of the CFP face a grueling schedule throughout November and early December.
By strategically incorporating non-conference games in November, the Big Ten can provide its teams with a much-needed respite and increase their chances of success in the College Football Playoff. This move could impact participation, seeding, and overall success in the postseason, ensuring that the Big Ten remains a competitive force in the national championship race.
Conclusion
The Big Ten's consideration of playing non-conference games in November marks a strategic move as the conference enters an era of expansion and the College Football Playoff expands. While the process of reconfiguring the schedule is complex, the potential advantages and impact on the conference's competitiveness in the postseason cannot be ignored.
By creating a late-season Saturday for non-conference games, the Big Ten can provide teams with a respite from the grueling conference schedule and increase their chances of success in the College Football Playoff. Drawing inspiration from the SEC's approach, the Big Ten can balance competitiveness and rest, ensuring that its teams are fresh and ready to compete at the highest level.
Overall, the potential inclusion of non-conference games in November has the potential to level the playing field, enhance the Big Ten's College Football Playoff prospects, and solidify its position as a competitive force in the national championship race.
