BREAKING: Players Era Festival CEO Seth Berger has just announced a major shift in the event’s format ahead of its expansion to 32 teams in July 2026. This decision comes only 24 hours after organizers initially promised to retain the current setup, a move spurred by significant online backlash regarding game matchups that were not revealed until after midnight ET.
In an exclusive interview with ESPN, Berger confirmed that all options are being considered as the festival transitions from its existing structure to accommodate the larger field. “The reality of this is having the humility to listen,” he stated. “We thought we had come up with the right solution… I don’t know that we’re going to a bracket, but all ideas are on the table.”
The urgency of this change arises from the confusion surrounding the current format, which utilizes a complex criteria based on margin of victory, records, AP rankings, head-to-head results, points allowed, and points scored. This year, despite a strong performance, Iowa State—which dominated both St. John’s and Creighton—was unfairly matched against Syracuse, which had lost both its games. Iowa State’s overall margin of victory (plus-19) proved insufficient for a shot at the championship, highlighting the flaws in the existing format.
This year’s Players Era champion will receive an additional $1 million in NIL compensation, complementing the guaranteed $1 million for each participant. The runner-up will take home $500,000, while the third-place game between Tennessee and Kansas offers $300,000 for the winner and $200,000 for the loser. However, Iowa State’s undefeated record failed to earn them any additional compensation, creating frustration among fans and players alike.
As the festival prepares for its next iteration in 2026, Berger’s remarks indicate a significant departure from traditional tournament structures, including the introduction of four eight-team pods and a showdown between the “four kings” of those groups. This represents a transformative moment for the Players Era Festival, one that organizers hope will enhance the experience for both players and fans.
Fans and stakeholders are eager to see how these changes will unfold, particularly in light of the recent dissatisfaction with the tournament’s operation. The swift reversal by Berger underscores the importance of fan feedback in shaping future events, making it clear that their voices are being heard.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Players Era Festival prepares for its upcoming events, which promise to redefine competitive play and fan engagement in the world of collegiate sports.
