The expanded College Football Playoff has concluded, with Ohio State emerging as the national champions. Despite some initial skepticism, this new format proved successful by delivering thrilling matchups and showcasing the sport's evolution. The playoff not only provided exciting games but also highlighted areas for improvement, ensuring a better experience for fans and teams alike.

Selection Committee's Choices and Matchup Outcomes

The selection committee faced criticism over its choices, particularly regarding the inclusion of Southern Methodist University (SMU) and Indiana University. However, despite blowout losses by these teams, the overall tournament featured memorable moments. Teams like Tennessee and Oregon were convincingly defeated by Ohio State, while Notre Dame triumphed over Georgia in an intense contest. Ultimately, the selection process demonstrated that sometimes, blowouts are inevitable, but the best teams still emerged victorious.

In the early rounds, SMU and Indiana were indeed overshadowed by Penn State and Notre Dame, leading to disappointment among SEC fans. Yet, the subsequent matches showcased the true strength of the selected teams. For instance, Tennessee's loss to Ohio State and Oregon's defeat at the hands of the Buckeyes highlighted the unpredictability of college football. Notably, four of the final six games were nail-biters, including Texas-Arizona State's double overtime thriller and the dramatic fumble return that decided Ohio State-Texas. These close encounters proved that the expanded field allowed for more competitive and engaging matchups, ultimately validating the new playoff structure.

Excitement on Campus and High Demand for Games

Hosting playoff games on campus created an electrifying atmosphere, from freezing temperatures in Pennsylvania to the vibrant tailgating scenes in Texas and Ohio. The energy at these venues was palpable, transforming ordinary games into unforgettable experiences. Fans packed stadiums, creating a buzz that resonated far beyond the playing field. Even in Columbus, where Buckeye fans initially felt disheartened after losing to Michigan, the presence of Tennessee supporters added a unique twist to the event.

The demand for these games was unprecedented. Television ratings soared, with millions tuning in for each matchup. The opening round drew an average of 10.6 million viewers per game, while quarterfinals saw even higher numbers, peaking at 21.1 million for the Ohio State-Oregon clash. In-person attendance was equally impressive, with tickets for the championship game commanding prices upwards of $6,000. This surge in interest suggests that fans crave more meaningful and competitive college football games. Additionally, bowl season viewership increased by 14%, dispelling concerns that the expanded playoff would diminish interest in other postseason contests.