The debate over the importance of conference championship games in college football has long been a contentious one. Recently, Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin reignited the conversation by suggesting that some teams, including Michigan, might view skipping their conference championship games as an advantage heading into the College Football Playoff. His comments caught the attention of Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel, who was quick to defend the Wolverines’ commitment to competitive integrity and the value of such games.
Speaking at a press conference, Manuel addressed Kiffin’s remarks directly. “We don’t dodge competition; we embrace it,” he said. “Michigan football has a long history of striving for championships, and the Big Ten title game is a critical part of that journey. It’s not just about the playoff — it’s about proving you’re the best in your conference.”
Kiffin’s statement stemmed from his belief that the conference championship game can sometimes be a disadvantage for top-tier teams. He pointed out that playing an additional high-stakes game against a formidable opponent can expose teams to injuries, fatigue, and potential losses that might hurt their playoff seeding. “Some teams are already locked into the playoff before championship weekend,” Kiffin noted. “Why risk it?”
While his observation highlights a strategic aspect of modern college football, it also sparked a backlash, particularly among those who see conference titles as a cornerstone of the sport’s traditions. Critics argue that diminishing the value of these games undermines the competitive spirit and reduces the legitimacy of the playoff selection process.
Manuel emphasized that the Big Ten Championship game is not just a hurdle but a proving ground. “For Michigan, and for every school in the Big Ten, the championship game represents the culmination of a season’s worth of hard work,” Manuel said. “It’s where champions are truly made. The stakes are high, and that’s exactly how it should be.”
He also pointed out the financial and reputational benefits of playing in and winning a conference championship. “These games are a massive draw for fans, broadcasters, and sponsors. They elevate the profile of our programs and provide our student-athletes with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents on a national stage,” Manuel added.
The debate over conference championships is particularly relevant as the College Football Playoff expands from four to 12 teams in 2024. Under the new format, conference champions will receive automatic bids, making these games even more significant. However, Kiffin’s argument about the physical toll of an extra game raises questions about how teams will balance risk and reward moving forward.
Manuel touched on this shift, expressing confidence in the expanded playoff structure. “The new system reinforces the value of conference championships while giving more teams a shot at the national title,” he said. “It’s a win-win for college football.”
However, he also acknowledged that the conversation Kiffin started might have merit in terms of player safety. “We always have to be mindful of the health and well-being of our student-athletes. That’s why we continue to work with the NCAA to ensure that the schedule, including postseason games, is designed with their best interests in mind.”
The philosophical divide between Kiffin and Manuel reflects broader tensions in college football. On one hand, there’s a push to preserve the traditions that have defined the sport for over a century. On the other, there’s a pragmatic desire to adapt to the realities of a highly competitive and increasingly commercialized landscape.
For Manuel and Michigan, the commitment to tradition appears unwavering. “When we step onto the field, whether it’s for a regular-season game, a championship, or a playoff, we’re there to compete and win,” he said. “That’s what Michigan football is all about.”
As the season progresses and the playoff picture takes shape, the discourse surrounding conference championships is unlikely to fade. For now, Manuel’s comments serve as a reminder that for many programs, the journey to the national title begins with winning the conference — and that’s a legacy worth defending.