The landscape of college football shifted significantly last night as three Group of 5 conferences concluded their championship games, each contest carrying heightened importance due to the newly implemented 12-team College Football Playoff (CFP) format. This expanded playoff structure grants automatic qualification to the five highest-ranked conference champions, with the top four receiving a coveted first-round bye, effectively guaranteeing a quarterfinal berth. This system ensures that all four Power 5 conferences are virtually assured a playoff spot, while also guaranteeing the inclusion of at least one Group of 5 champion, a significant development for these often-overlooked conferences. The results of these championship games have set the stage for a potentially historic CFP, introducing new narratives and contenders into the mix.
The Mountain West Championship witnessed a dominant performance by No. 10 Boise State, solidifying their position as a serious CFP contender. They handily defeated No. 20 UNLV 21-7, driven by the stellar performance of Heisman candidate Ashton Jeanty, who amassed 209 rushing yards and a touchdown. Boise State’s defense proved equally formidable, effectively neutralizing the UNLV offense. Crucially, Boise State’s current No. 10 ranking in the CFP standings places them ahead of several Power 5 teams still vying for championship titles, significantly bolstering their chances of securing a first-round bye and a guaranteed spot in the quarterfinals. This achievement would be a landmark victory for Boise State, the Mountain West Conference, and the Group of 5 as a whole, highlighting the increasing competitiveness of these programs. The financial implications are equally substantial, with a CFP berth guaranteeing a $4 million payout, potentially doubling to $8 million should they advance to the quarterfinals courtesy of the bye. UNLV, meanwhile, is projected to participate in the LA Bowl Hosted by Gronk, the financial details of which are yet to be announced.
The American Athletic Conference (AAC) Championship game saw Army etch its name in the history books, claiming their first-ever conference title with a decisive 35-14 victory over defending champion Tulane. The Black Knights established their dominance early, building a substantial lead in the first half and maintaining control throughout the game. Despite this impressive season and championship victory, Army’s prospects for a CFP berth remain slim due to a lack of victories against top-25 ranked opponents and a lopsided loss to No. 4 Notre Dame. While a CFP bid seems unlikely, Army is poised for a bowl game appearance, with potential destinations including the Wasabi Fenway Bowl, the Military Bowl, the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, and the Hawaii Bowl, among others. Their conference championship victory marks a significant milestone in the program’s history, regardless of their playoff prospects.
Jacksonville State authored another chapter of firsts, capturing their inaugural Conference USA championship in their second season at the FBS level, defeating Western Kentucky in a resounding 52-12 victory. The Gamecocks dominated from the outset, establishing an early lead and never relinquishing control, propelled by quarterback Tyler Huff’s impressive performance, which included two passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown. This remarkable season has fueled speculation that head coach Rich Rodriguez may be a candidate for the vacant coaching position at West Virginia, his previous coaching stint from 2001-2007. While neither Jacksonville State nor Western Kentucky realistically contended for a CFP berth, both teams are anticipated to participate in bowl games. Potential bowl destinations for Conference USA teams include the Bahamas Bowl, Frisco Bowl, Hawaii Bowl, and the R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl.
The implications of the expanded CFP format are clearly evident in the heightened significance of these Group of 5 championship games. Boise State’s dominant victory positions them as a strong contender for not only a CFP berth but also a first-round bye, potentially shaking up the traditional power structure of college football. Army’s historic conference championship, while likely not leading to a CFP appearance, underscores the increasing competitiveness of Group of 5 programs. Jacksonville State’s triumph, similarly, showcases the potential for rapid ascension within the FBS landscape. These results underscore the evolving dynamics of college football and the heightened stakes for all conferences under the new CFP format.
The financial ramifications of these championship outcomes are substantial, particularly for Boise State, who stand to gain significantly from their likely CFP berth. This financial windfall not only benefits the program itself but also the Mountain West Conference, demonstrating the potential for increased revenue and national exposure for Group of 5 conferences. The bowl game appearances for the other participating teams also represent significant financial opportunities, further highlighting the importance of these championship contests. The expanded CFP structure creates a more inclusive and competitive landscape, offering greater opportunities for both athletic achievement and financial rewards.
The 2023 Group of 5 championship games have reshaped the narrative of college football, demonstrating the increased competitiveness and relevance of these conferences in the era of the expanded CFP. Boise State’s potential first-round bye represents a significant breakthrough for the Group of 5, while Army and Jacksonville State’s historic conference championships signify the growing strength and ambition of these programs. The financial implications further underscore the importance of these games, creating a more dynamic and rewarding landscape for all conferences. These results set the stage for an exciting and unpredictable CFP, with the potential for new contenders to emerge and challenge the established hierarchy of college football. The landscape of college football is undoubtedly changing, and the Group of 5 conferences are proving they are a force to be reckoned with.
