Chesney and UCLA Welcome the Challenge of a 24-Team Playoff
Chesney values the challenge
Chesney has coached at Division III, Division II, FCS, Group of Six and Power Four levels. He has won a conference championship at each stop and led James Madison to the playoff last year under its 12-team format.
UCLA faces a demanding finish
The Bruins have started 9-0 for the first time since 1998, despite injuries, including one to a player who had been important to the team’s success. Quarterback Ty Dieffenbach has helped keep UCLA undefeated after Nico Iamaleava’s injury.
Expanded field draws support
The playoff is set to grow from 12 teams to 24 in 2027. Under that format, the article says UCLA could likely lose its final three games and still qualify as a nine-win team.
Tim Harris, UCLA’s athletics director after 35 years with the Los Angeles Lakers, said he did not think the tournament had reached the point of dilution. “I don’t think we’re there yet,” he said.
Key points
- The College Football Playoff is set to expand from 12 teams to 24 in 2027.
- UCLA is 9-0 for the first time since 1998, with three regular-season games left.
- Chesney has won a conference championship at every level where he has been a head coach.
- Tim Harris said he does not believe the expanded playoff is yet too large.