NCAA Football Season Could Start Earlier in 2027: What it Means for California

**Why it matters locally:** The NCAA's proposal to start the college football season earlier, potentially in 2027, directly impacts California due to the state's numerous and popular college football programs, including those at UCLA, USC, Stanford, and Cal. An earlier start date impacts scheduling for these teams, potentially affecting game days, travel arrangements, and ultimately fan attendance and local revenues, including income for businesses near stadiums. A longer window for games may also reduce schedule congestion allowing more fans to view games and improving marketing opportunities. Furthermore, the change impacts the state's economy, which benefits significantly from college football. Businesses around stadiums, such as restaurants, bars, and hotels, see increased revenue on game days. An extended football season could spread out these economic benefits, or alter established game weekend traffic and logistics. Decision-makers at California universities will also need to consider how this proposal affects their athletic departments' budgets and operations. --- Indianapolis, IN – The NCAA is considering a proposal to shift the beginning of the college football season. A Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) committee recommended Thursday that the season commence earlier, beginning with the 2027 season. The proposal suggests that FBS teams play their scheduled 12 games over a 14-week period. Under the recommendation, games would begin on the Thursday of what is currently designated as Week 0. The objective of this change is to provide greater flexibility within the football schedule. The NCAA will further evaluate the recommendation before any formal adoption.