College football is undergoing a significant transformation, and the changes are coming fast. With the FBS Oversight Committee and Division I Cabinet signing off on a new five-year eligibility model, an earlier start to the FBS season, and a calendar change to spring and offseason practices, the sport is evolving at a rapid pace. These changes are not just about moving to FBS for North Dakota State and Sacramento State and joining new leagues; they are about reshaping the entire landscape of college football.
One of the most intriguing aspects of these changes is the introduction of OTA's (Organized Team Activities) to college football. The NFL created OTA's two decades ago as a way to practice without calling it practice. Now, the Oversight Committee is proposing to bring this concept to college football, allowing FBS teams to have two out-of-season practice sessions for a total of 21 practices. This could revolutionize the way teams prepare for the season, but it also raises questions about the potential impact on player health and safety.
The new eligibility model is another significant change. The NCAA has signed off on a five-year eligibility model, which means players who haven't used a redshirt season will gain an extra year of eligibility. This could have a profound impact on the roster and the decisions coaches make about player development. For example, Preston Brown, a sophomore quarterback who played eight games for NDSU last year, was set to redshirt to maintain three more years of eligibility. But with the rule change, Brown now has four years to play, and the offensive staff may look to work him into the gameplan as fall camp gets going.
The earlier start date is another fascinating development. The FCS has led the way on this, with a full schedule starting on August 29. For the FBS, this will be the final Week Zero, with NDSU playing in Week Zero because they're playing a road game at Hawaii. Come next year, the final Saturday in August will be the regular start date of the season, which could open up a bunch of opportunities for building out future schedules. However, this also raises questions about the potential impact on player health and safety, as the season will start earlier and teams will have to adjust their training and preparation schedules accordingly.
In my opinion, these changes are a double-edged sword. On one hand, they offer exciting opportunities for innovation and growth in the sport. On the other hand, they also present significant challenges that must be carefully navigated. The introduction of OTA's, for example, could revolutionize the way teams prepare for the season, but it also raises concerns about the potential impact on player health and safety. Similarly, the earlier start date could open up new opportunities for scheduling and broadcasting, but it also means that players will have to adjust to a more compressed training and preparation schedule.
As we move forward, it will be crucial to carefully consider the implications of these changes and ensure that they are implemented in a way that benefits the players, coaches, and fans of college football. The sport is evolving at a rapid pace, and it will be fascinating to see how these changes play out in the coming years. One thing is certain: the future of college football is bright, but it will require careful navigation to ensure that it remains a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved.
