In this episode, we dive into the proposed expansion of the College Football Playoff (CFP) to 16 teams — and the controversy surrounding automatic bids. With the SEC and Big Ten potentially locking down four auto-bids while the ACC and Big 12 only get two, is this an unfair power grab or a strategic necessity?

I break down why the Big 12 might be wise to accept the deal despite the imbalance, and why its long-term future could depend on the survival of the ACC. Plus, a message for fans: rooting for the collapse of other conferences may backfire. This episode is a must-listen for college football fans, realignment watchers, and those tracking the future of the CFP.

Keywords: College Football Playoff expansion, CFP 16 teams, Big 12 football, SEC power, ACC survival, college football realignment, automatic bids CFP, NCAA football podcast

In this episode of First and XII, we dive deep into one of the biggest questions in college football today: Does college football need a commissioner? With the NCAA's rapidly evolving landscape, we explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of appointing a centralized leader to oversee the sport nationally.

We examine what this could mean specifically for the Big 12 Conference, especially as it navigates realignment, competitiveness, and long-term stability. The discussion also tackles the growing impact of the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals on college football programs, recruiting dynamics, and athlete retention.

Is a commissioner the solution to these complex issues? Or would it create more challenges for conferences like the Big 12? Join us as we break down expert opinions, fan perspectives, and real-world implications of this major shift in college football governance.

Key Topics Covered:

• The case for and against a college football commissioner
• How NIL and the transfer portal are reshaping the sport
• The Big 12’s current position and future in an evolving NCAA landscape
• What centralized leadership could mean for player movement, competitive balance, and policy enforcement

Tags:
College football commissioner, Big 12 football, NCAA governance, NIL in college football, transfer portal issues, college football podcast, college football realignment, Big 12 news, NIL impact, NCAA leadership, college athletics policy

The Big 12 Conference has added eight teams in the past two years. Some of these teams have overperformed expectations while others are struggling and don't appear to have any true path forward to rising up.

In this episode, we rank each of the teams 1-8.