Division II football playoffs expand from 28 to 32 teams

The NCAA Division II football playoffs will expand for the first time in over 20 years, growing from 28 to 32 teams due to the increased role of automatic qualifiers. This change ensures all conferences are represented in the championship bracket, but it’s unique because unlike other divisions, Division II doesn’t award automatic bids based on performance. The four top-ranked teams will no longer receive first-round byes, and the championship game is set for Dec. 20 in McKinney, Texas.