Paying to Play: NDSU, Sac State and the 24-Team CFP

Paying to Play: NDSU, Sac State and the 24-Team CFP

February 18, 2026 · 33 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the financial strategies of college football programs and the implications of proposed changes to the playoff system.

College football is changing fast — and now schools are paying their way into the future. This week we break down North Dakota State joining the Mountain West and Sacramento State’s massive financial commitment to enter the MAC. Are these smart long-term investments, or risky gambles for relevance? We also discuss the Big Ten’s reported 24-team College Football Playoff proposal, the potential elimination of conference championship games, and what that could mean for the sport. Plus, we react to the Trinidad Chambliss eligibility ruling at Ole Miss and what it says about courts stepping into NCAA governance. Is this evolution… or is college football losing its structure? Follow, subscribe, and leave a rating if you enjoy the show.

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