In 1968, the idea of a college football playoff was hotly debated, as highlighted by two articles from that time. Ted O’Leary’s piece in the Shamokin News Dispatch outlined a proposed eight-team playoff featuring conference champions from the Big Ten, Big Eight, SEC, Southwest Conference, and Athletic Association of Western Universities, plus three at-large bids. Proponents argued it would bring significant revenue and align football with other NCAA sports, while critics cited concerns over extended seasons, player stress, and the growing dominance of football over academics.
Kyle Griffin’s article in the Memphis Commercial Appeal declared the playoff idea dead, attributing its demise to staunch opposition from coaches and institutions. Duffy Doherty of Michigan State believed a playoff made “too much sense” to be implemented. Southeastern Conference coaches like Bear Bryant were fiercely protective of the bowl system, emphasizing its financial and cultural value. Northern coaches, such as Purdue’s Jack Mollenkopf, worried about the physical toll on players, logistical challenges, and potential academic conflicts. Faculty opposition to a playoff was also strong, though such resistance has since disappeared.
The context of the debate was rooted in the controversial 1966 season when Notre Dame, accused of playing for a tie against Michigan State, finished as the top-ranked team over an undefeated Alabama. This fueled arguments about the fairness of rankings and sparked interest in a structured playoff.
Today, the vast money generated by the College Football Playoff system has overshadowed past concerns. Academic priorities, once a key argument against expansion, have largely faded, underscoring how much the landscape of college football has changed. These debates highlight the evolution of priorities in college athletics over the decades.
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