Mike Bianchi: UCF had to invent its own national championship, but 24-team playoff makes college football more fair and fun

UCF had to create its own national championship because it was left out of major postseason opportunities, but the newly introduced 24‑team playoff system is making college football more equitable and exciting. The author reflects on nostalgic days when Florida and Florida State fans celebrated invitations to defunct bowls like the Astro‑Bluebonnet and Tangerine, highlighting how the expanded playoff era improves the sport’s fairness.