In a wide-ranging conversation on Talk of Champions, On3’s national college football analyst Andy Staples joined Ben Garrett and Brad Logan to unpack some of the biggest storylines shaping the sport, from Ole Miss’ expectations to the future of the College Football Playoff and the ever-evolving NIL era.
Staples highlighted the growing tension around gambling regulations in college athletics, noting that enforcement remains strict when it comes to players betting on their own teams. While professional leagues like the NFL allow for eventual reinstatement, college football continues to take a zero-tolerance approach to protect the integrity of the game.
Turning to the field, Staples expressed confidence in Ole Miss as a legitimate playoff contender, pushing back on national skepticism. He acknowledged that perception often comes down to branding more than substance, saying the Rebels’ lack of preseason hype compared to traditional powers is “purely the logo.” With key returning talent, he believes Ole Miss belongs firmly in the playoff conversation.
Staples also addressed the future of the College Football Playoff, predicting expansion is inevitable, likely moving from 12 teams to either 16 or even 24 in the coming years. While he prefers the current format for its exclusivity and competitive edge, he noted that coaches and conferences are pushing for expansion to increase access and job security.
On NIL and the business side of college football, Staples was blunt: the sport has fully transitioned into a pay-for-play model. He expects eventual movement toward collective bargaining, similar to professional leagues, though any attempt to cap player earnings is unlikely to hold up legally.