The college football playoff committee has decided to reject the proposal from ESPN to move the college football playoff semifinals from New Year’s Eve to January 2nd.
The College Football Playoff will not move its semifinal date for the 2015 season despite a request from ESPN to change it from New Year’s Eve to Jan. 2, 2016.
The 2015 semifinals — to be played at the Capital One Orange Bowl and the Goodyear Cotton Bowl — are scheduled for Dec. 31.
“We reviewed it and rejected it,” said Pac-12 commissioner Larry Scott, who is on the playoff’s management committee. “We like the concept that we’ve developed for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Going forward, we think that’s the right model for college football.”
Ten FBS commissioners, along with Notre Dame athletic director Jack Swarbrick, comprise the playoff’s management committee.
Bill Hancock, executive director of the College Football Playoff, confirmed no change would be made. He said those conversations are “over and done with.”
“We’re not going to change,” Hancock said. “It’s a done deal.”
A representative for ESPN declined comment.
ESPN wanted to move the game to the January 2nd for next year since it fell on a Saturday and would be much more fan friendly. They also think they would be able to avoid a ratings drop by having the games air on a weekend rather than a Thursday.