USC officials insist the school is not trying to kill its prestigious college football series with Notre Dame and instead is seeking shorter contracts.

The Trojans are understandably wary of a long-term deal until there’s clarity on the next version of the playoff.

The expected change would have the seeds match the selection committee’s final rankings, regardless of conference affiliation. A move to straight seeding would also allow independent Notre Dame to receive a top-four seed and a first-round bye.

The CFP’s new seeding approach benefits power conferences and signals a future shaped by SEC and Big Ten influence.

The College Football Playoff seeding is changing. A look at how that format would have affected Georgia last year and comments from AD Josh Brooks.