Oregon could have its 2027 College Football Playoff hopes derailed before the season even kicks off. The Ducks have just nine qualifying games on their 12-game schedule, falling short of the CFP’s new 10-game requirement. With the 24-team expansion officially approved Monday, Dan Lanning faces a major scheduling headache. Oregon must find another qualifying opponent or secure an exception to avoid putting its playoff eligibility at risk.
“The Oregon Ducks currently DO NOT MEET the requirements to make the 2027 CFB Playoff,” Elite College Football’s Instagram post read. “They only have NINE Power 4 teams scheduled for the 2027 season as of now… The CFP requires that a team play TEN Power 4 programs.” Under the official rule, conference games and nonconference matchups against Power Four opponents or Notre Dame qualify. The CFP can also grant waivers in extraordinary circumstances.
Oregon’s Big Ten schedule features four home games against Iowa, Ohio State, Penn State, and Purdue, while the Ducks travel to face Maryland, Michigan State, Nebraska, UCLA, and Washington, bringing their qualifying conference game total to nine…