The reported 5+11 format drew criticism from national pundits Joel Klatt of FOX and Josh Pate of CBS Sports. One of Klatt's critiques overlooks a key element.

On today's episode of Locked On College Football, Spencer McLaughlin discusses whether SMU will return to the Playoff. The Mustangs along with Indiana face a similar challenge to make the 12-team format again.

Illinois QB Luke Altmyer told On3's Pete Nakos that he turned down SEC offers to stay with the Illini for his last season of college football. The story is an example of how NIL is helping balance the playing field in college football.

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