Former Alabama head coach and current ESPN analyst Nick Saban expressed skepticism about the expanded College Football Playoff format during the SEC Football Kickoff Media Day in Tampa on July 22, 2026. Saban stated, "There's not 24 teams in the country that can win the national championship," questioning the competitive balance of a 24-team playoff. The comments come as the CFP prepares to expand from its current four-team structure. Saban, who led Alabama to six national titles, suggested that the expanded field would dilute the quality of the championship. The remarks were made during his appearance at the Tampa Marriott as part of SEC media obligations.
Nick Saban Criticizes College Football Playoff Expansion to 24 Teams
