The Big Ten Conference, which has already implemented a salary-cap-like structure in college athletics, is now exploring a shift toward an NFL-style scheduling model. Ohio State athletic director Ross Bjork disclosed on "The Ryan Day Show" on 97.1 The Fan that the conference is actively discussing a results-based scheduling system that would adjust opponents based on the previous season's performance.
Dynamic Scheduling Based on Recent Results
Bjork explained that when the Big Ten expanded to include West Coast teams, scheduling rotations were initially based on historical football records. However, programs like Indiana and UCLA have changed significantly in recent years. "Indiana was not what Indiana is today when they set the model. Same thing with UCLA," Bjork said. Under the proposed model, changes could begin with the 2028 season, meaning opponents would not be finalized until after the 2027 campaign. Weaker teams would receive more favorable schedules, while stronger teams would face tougher matchups, mirroring the NFL's approach.
Key rivalries, such as Ohio State versus Michigan, would remain protected and played annually. "Next year's schedule, we would not know who we're playing, other than protecting the rivalry games," Bjork noted. "Obviously, we have the biggest one. Other than that, the rest of the schedule could be based on how the teams finished the previous year. That's how the NFL does it."
Parity and Potential Challenges
Bjork cited increased parity driven by Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules and the transfer portal as reasons for the change. "We're having active conversations that we need to change the way we schedule. There's a lot more parity in the system," he said. A dynamic model could create a more equitable strength of schedule across the league. However, the unlimited player movement allowed by current transfer portal and NIL rules introduces greater roster volatility from season to season compared to the NFL, where multi-year contracts provide stability. The scheduling discussion gains urgency with the upcoming expansion to a 24-team College Football Playoff.
