Making the playoffs is the quintessential goal for many sports teams. In college football, the playoffs are a battleground for glory, legacy and honor; however, they also create lucrative opportunities for programs.
The College Football Playoff (CFP) receives over $1.3 billion from its media rights with ESPN alone. For programs, the real money comes from making, and advancing, within the playoffs.
The CFP awards $4 million to the conferences of qualifying teams and another $4 million for reaching the quarterfinals. The winnings jump to $6 million for making the semifinals, plus an additional $6 million for competing in the national championship.