How College Football Schedules and Conference Games Work
A practical explanation of conferences, opponents and the regular season.
College football schedules generally combine conference opponents with nonconference games. Conference membership can affect travel, rivalry games and the standings used to determine championship opportunities.
What readers should understand
Schedules are often released well before the season, but kickoff times and television arrangements can be announced later. Changes can also occur because of weather, venue concerns or other exceptional circumstances.
Different divisions and conferences use different postseason systems. Readers should check the conference and school athletics websites for the rules that apply to a particular team.
Important considerations
A schedule is not the same as a prediction. Results, injuries and administrative decisions can alter the competitive picture throughout a season.
Questions to ask
Before making decisions, check whether the information applies to your institution, location and individual circumstances. Rules and services may change, and the official organization responsible for a program is the best place to confirm current details.
Source and further reading
Official or educational reference. This explainer is independently written and is not endorsed by the linked organization.