Four months after Alabama narrowly squeaked into the College Football Playoff despite a Southeastern Conference title game loss, athletic director Greg Byrne is calling for an end to the 34-year tradition.
“I think the ship has sailed. It’s run its course,” Byrne said in a recent interview with USA Today.
Alabama lost to Georgia 28-7 in the SEC championship game last December, its poorest showing since losing the season opener at Florida State. With a 10-3 record, the Crimson Tide left Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium with the impression that their last game of the season could have already been played.
“It’s a great event,” Byrne said. “I don’t like the idea of it going away, but I think it’s reality with an expanded playoff.”
Expansion is likely coming, but the College Football Playoff will stay at 12 teams for the upcoming season.