How the College Football Playoff works in the 2026-27 season

The buildup to the College Football Playoff is about to begin. The first edition of the 2026-27 CFP rankings will be unveiled this week. It will be the first of several rankings released in the lead-up to Selection Sunday. The Indiana Hoosiers, ranked No. 6 in the latest AP poll, are looking to go back-to-back after capturing their first national championship last season. The No. 1 Miami Hurricanes, meanwhile, are trying to go from runners-up to champions in search of the program s first national title since 2001. From the rankings to the format and much more, here s everything to know for this season s CFP: When are the first College Football Playoff rankings released? The first CFP rankings will be released Tuesday, Nov. 3. The top 25 will then be updated each Tuesday through Dec. 1, before the bracket is unveiled Sunday, Dec. 6. College Football Playoff rankings release schedule, how to watch Here s the TV schedule for the rankings releases: Tuesday, Nov. 3