The College Football Playoff (CFP) has officially approved a new straight seeding model for the 2025 postseason, abandoning the automatic byes previously granted to conference champions. This significant change aims to reward the highest-ranked teams in the playoff rankings and allows for a more straightforward approach in determining matchups. As a result, teams like Notre Dame will now have opportunities for first-round byes, emphasizing a shift toward enhancing competition across all leagues. The new format has sparked mixed reactions among fans and analysts, with concerns about its timing and potential impacts on team dynamics. The decision reflects ongoing discussions about the future of the playoff system, including possible expansions in the years to come.