Arkansas’ Yurachek Leads CFP; Utah’s Harlan Rejoins
The College Football Playoff (CFP) made significant announcements regarding its selection committee on Thursday. Mark Harlan, athletic director of Utah, is rejoining the committee. Hunter Yurachek, the current athletic director of Arkansas, has been appointed its new chair.
Changes in the Selection Committee
These changes follow the decision of Mack Rhoades, the current chair and Baylor athletic director, to take a leave of absence. This leave was initiated for personal reasons amid an investigation at Baylor University.
Leadership Transitions
Rich Clark, the CFP’s executive director, expressed appreciation for Rhoades’ contributions as chair. “Mack has informed us of his decision to step down for personal reasons, and our thoughts are with him and his family during this time,” Clark stated.
- Hunter Yurachek assumes role of Selection Committee Chair immediately.
- Mark Harlan returns after serving a one-year term in the 2023 season.
- The committee usually requires members to be active athletic directors.
The nominations were unanimously approved by the 10 FBS commissioners and Pete Bevacqua, the athletic director at Notre Dame. This shake-up comes as the CFP contends with a member shortage, as previous committee member Randall McDaniel also stepped down last month.
Background on Mack Rhoades
Rhoades initiated his leave from Baylor but has not provided specific details regarding its reasons. Baylor confirmed receiving allegations against him earlier in the week. Importantly, these allegations are unrelated to Title IX, student welfare, or NCAA rules.
Interim Leadership at Baylor
In Rhoades’ absence, Jovan Overshown and Cody Hall will serve as co-interim athletic directors. Here are their roles:
- Jovan Overshown: Deputy athletic director and chief operating officer.
- Cody Hall: Executive senior associate athletic director for internal administration and chief financial officer.
As the CFP moves forward, these leadership changes signal a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the selection process amidst ongoing challenges.
