Reinvented Pac-12 Implements Innovative Flex Schedule to Boost CFP Prospects

POLICY WIRE — City, Country — The Pac-12, now a part of the Group of Six, is adopting a novel approach to increase its chances of making the College Football Playoff (CFP). The conference will...

Editorial Desk

August 28, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — City, Country — The Pac-12, now a part of the Group of Six, is adopting a novel approach to increase its chances of making the College Football Playoff (CFP). The conference will utilize a unique “flex” schedule during the last week of the regular season.

This strategy aims to give the Pac-12 a competitive edge in securing a CFP spot. Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould highlighted the benefits of this approach, stating that it allows the conference to manipulate the schedule for the most advantageous outcomes for its teams.

The Pac-12 faced significant challenges after a mass exodus left only Oregon State and Washington State as remaining members. The conference has since been rebuilt with the addition of six new football teams and Gonzaga for basketball, along with new media rights deals ensuring all games are broadcast on linear TV.

The flex schedule is designed to create high-profile rematches and strengthen the conference’s CFP hopes. The games, hosted by Colorado State, Utah State, Fresno State, and Washington State, will not affect conference standings but will be determined six days in advance.

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Oregon State athletic director Kevin Griffin expressed optimism about the new schedule, hoping it will provide the conference with a better chance of having a team in the CFP. The goal is to maximize opportunities for CFP qualification.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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