INDIANAPOLIS (AP) 鈥� An NCAA committee on Thursday recommended that play a 12-game schedule over 14 weeks beginning in 2027 with the season starting on the Thursday of what is now designated Week Zero and ending the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
The Division I FBS Oversight Committee made the recommendation, which would require approval by the Division I Cabinet. The Cabinet is scheduled to discuss the recommendation in June.
In addition to eliminating exceptions for teams to play before the first contest date, a 14-week regular season would provide two open dates for all teams. The earlier start date would allow flexibility for potential expansion to the , which could require opening games in mid-December, and preserve standalone weekends for conference championships and the Army-Navy game.
Two built-in open dates also would allow more rest for players, which has been a concern for teams advancing in the CFP.
The 2026 season starts with eight Week Zero games Aug. 29.
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