Bowl Season Director Discusses CFP Influence and Future of Bowl Games
As the college football bowl season unfolds, stakeholders are grappling with the future of bowl games amid the growing influence of the College Football Playoff (CFP). The 2023 bowl season commenced on December 13, featuring a matchup between Washington and Boise State at the LA Bowl, where Washington triumphed with a score of 38-10. The game, held at SoFi Stadium, attracted 4.1 million viewers, although attendance was notably low, with only 23,269 fans present.
Challenges Facing Bowl Games
The current climate of college football has placed bowl games in a precarious position. The expansion of the CFP to possibly include 16 teams poses significant questions about the future of non-CFP bowl games. Players opting out of bowl participation, along with coaching changes, have further complicated the scenario. Nick Carparelli, Executive Director of Bowl Season, has acknowledged the need to evaluate the structure of bowl games going forward.
Transition and Future Planning
- Current discussions focus on how to sustain bowl games alongside CFP expansion.
- Adjustments may be necessary as the CFP evolves.
- Key issues revolve around participation and eligibility of teams for postseason play.
Carparelli noted that the bowl system has historically been dictated by market demand. He believes that flexibility will be essential as consumer interest fluctuates. While the beauty of bowl games remains, he emphasized the need for ongoing assessments to align with college football’s dynamic landscape.
Concerns Over Bowl Game Viability
With the number of bowl games remaining at 82, the industry faces a unique challenge. Institutions have begun to assess their willingness to participate in bowl season, especially when some teams decline invitations due to coaching turnover or player injuries. Examples include Kansas State and Iowa State, which opted out after significant coaching changes.
The bowl system will likely require adaptation, particularly as the CFP format evolves. The complexity of keeping teams engaged without over-stressing the system will be a significant talking point in future discussions with conference partners. In light of recent trends, the need for a balanced approach to postseason opportunities has never been clearer.
Viewer Engagement and Future Predictions
Despite the uncertainties, bowl games continue to attract substantial viewership. Last season, several games exceeded four million viewers, with the Alamo Bowl reaching an impressive eight million. This year, games like the ReliaQuest Bowl and the Pinstripe Bowl are expected to draw significant attention, featuring competitive matchups that resonate with fans.
In summary, as the college football landscape continues to shift, the conversation surrounding bowl games remains crucial. The evolving relationship between bowl structures and the expanding College Football Playoff will greatly influence the future of postseason college football.
