The much-anticipated 12-team College Football Playoff kicked off with a lackluster opening round, as all four games ended in double-digit victories. Fans who had hoped for underdog stories and nail-biting finishes were instead left questioning the selection and seeding process.
Despite the rocky start, the postseason eventually found its footing. The quarterfinals brought more competitive matchups, highlighted by Texas and Arizona State’s double-overtime thriller. The later rounds showcased the potential of the expanded format, delivering a mix of drama and memorable moments.
While the inaugural 12-team playoff had its share of growing pains, it also offered a glimpse of what could become a consistently thrilling format. But the lack of parity in the first round raised questions about whether the system needs tweaking to avoid blowouts in future iterations.