Josh Pate's College Football Show CFP Calendar Disaster & Signing Day Nostalgia - Pate State Extra
Feb 4, 2026
A lively breakdown of how the NFL’s scheduling power has warped the College Football Playoff calendar. A clear look at why the season midpoint slid into November and the ripple effects of later national title dates. A nostalgic stroll through the old National Signing Day spectacle, complete with chaotic live announcements and surprise signings. A brief reflection on Gus Malzahn’s tactical imprint on the game.
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CFP Calendar Stretched By NFL TV Power
- Josh Pate argues the new CFP calendar lengthens the season and pushes the mathematical midpoint into mid-November.
- He ties the stretched schedule directly to needing to work around the NFL's TV windows and influence.
Season Midpoint Slides Earlier
- Pate highlights quarterfinals on Dec 30 and Jan 1 plus semis Jan 14–15 and a Jan 25 title as evidence the season now stretches far later.
- He notes the season's mathematical halfway point falls around week 11, unusually early relative to past calendars.
Earlier Finish Possible If Coordinated With NFL
- Pate explains an alternative schedule could finish earlier if college coordinated with the NFL and used earlier December slots.
- He asserts college football hasn't sought NFL help despite needing coordinated TV windows.