The first 12-team Playoff had a lot of great moments. It could also use some tweaks. In the short term, leaders are unlikely to make major changes to the format for the 2025 season. The bigger stuff is more likely to come in 2026, when the new contracts kick in and the SEC and Big Ten basically get to do whatever they want.

It's never too early to look ahead to next season's College Football Playoff despite the Ohio State Buckeyes capturing the National Championship just weeks ago.

Whether it is renewed rivalries, the next chapter in a longstanding series or a rematch from the 2024 season, the 2025 non-conference schedule promises to deliver high drama and excitement. The first month of the upcoming season expects to feature numerous top-25 matchups that are certain to set the tone for the playoff race.