The Big Ten and SEC each have 4 top 10 teams in AP women’s poll as UCLA, South Carolina still lead the way

In the 2024 College Football Playoff, the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference once again showcased their strength, claiming a significant share of playoff berths. The playoffs featured the final four teams, including two from the Big Ten—Ohio State and Penn State—and one from the SEC, Texas, alongside Notre Dame. This scenario marks the third time in four years that the wealthiest leagues have filled three of the final four spots. The playoffs were expanded to include a total of 12 teams, with guaranteed spots for five conference champions, complicating the playoff picture while highlighting the dominance of these conferences. Penn State achieved a notable milestone by reaching the semifinal stage for the first time, while Ohio State experienced its fifth playoff semifinal appearance. This season represented an achievement for the SEC despite the absence of former powerhouses Alabama and Georgia, as Texas made its second consecutive appearance in the playoffs, bolstering the conference's reputation. Notably, the Longhorns coach, Steve Sarkisian, emphasized the challenges presented by competing in a leading football conference. Both conferences have been extraordinary in maintaining presence within the playoff framework, with the SEC establishing a streak of having at least one team in the final four each year since the inception of the format. If both Big Ten teams advance to the playoff title match, it will signify a remarkable feat, replicating accomplishments previously seen only with SEC teams. As the playoff unfolds, anticipation grows for potential matchups between familiar rivals, revealing the highly competitive nature of college football. The broader picture surrounding college football is that the Big Ten and SEC remain at the forefront, dominating the rankings and attracting top talent year in and year out. This trend reflects the evolving landscape of college sports, where both conferences persistently adapt to emphasize their football programs' success while competing against other rising leagues, such as the Big 12 and ACC.