Players Era CEO Revolutionizes Game Format: What to Expect for 2026

LAS VEGAS — Just a day after promising no changes, Players Era Festival CEO Seth Berger has decided to rethink the tournament format for next year. The event will expand to 32 teams, and Berger recognized that fans were confused about how the current setup worked.

After some backlash about matchups not being announced until after midnight ET, Berger acknowledged, “The reality of this is having the humility to listen.” Originally, the tournament used a formula based on factors like victory margins, records, and rankings. But now, he’s open to new ideas, including a bracket format.

This change is significant, especially after Iowa State, despite its strong performance, faced Syracuse—who lost both its games—because Iowa State’s margin of victory was deemed insufficient. Iowa State ended up winning but missed out on a chance for additional NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) compensation. The stakes are high: winners can earn significant bonuses, like the $1 million prize for the championship team.

Recent statistics show that NIL deals are on the rise. In 2023 alone, over 60% of college athletes reported having some form of NIL agreement, reflecting a trend toward increased financial opportunities for athletes.

In 2026, the tournament will have a new format with four groups of eight teams, featuring exciting matchups between the “four kings” of each pod. This shift is sure to generate buzz among fans and players alike. As Berger noted, adapting to feedback is crucial for the festival’s success.

For more on the evolving landscape of college sports and NIL opportunities, check out NCAA’s insights on NIL.

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