Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, a prominent Heisman Trophy prospect, publicly urged President Donald Trump to expand the College Football Playoff (CFP) through an executive order. His call went viral after he responded to posts advocating for increasing its size from 12 teams.

Pavia’s statement came following the release of playoff rankings that placed the Commodores at 14 with little hope of competing in the upcoming, limited 12-team bracket. The team’s strong performance, highlighted by a 45-24 victory over Tennessee – their most wins ever – couldn’t secure them a coveted spot despite being undefeated and having an impressive record.

The proposed expansion model suggested four automatic berths to the SEC and Big Ten conferences, while the ACC and Big 12 would each receive two. The remaining spots would be determined by a computer ranking system for at-large selections.

This scenario mirrors one occurring just miles away in Gainesville, Florida. Miami, which also sits at 10 with a 10-2 record after defeating Virginia Tech this year – ironically outpacing the CFP rankings themselves – is facing similar frustration as Championship weekend approaches. Calls are growing for President Trump to intervene directly.

Miami finds itself tied with Notre Dame and Vanderbilt in this crowded playoff field, but like the Commodores, they face significant odds of being left out entirely despite their strong seasons. Both teams have Top-25 résumés with double-digit wins yet little traction within the current selection committee framework designed for a 12-team playoff.

The pressure is mounting on entities potentially capable of shaping the future of college football’s biggest events, especially those involved in the highest levels of competition and decision-making surrounding championship opportunities.