If it’s three-loss Tulane, the AAC probably doesn’t pass the Big 12’s champion. But if one-loss Army blows out Tulane, the Black Knights would presumably re-join the College Football Playoff rankings and *could* end up ranked higher than the Big 12 champ.

The new CFP format allows more teams to stay in contention for the National Championship. In previous seasons, it was nearly impossible to make the CFP with two losses. Now, teams have a bit more wiggle room and can stay alive deeper into the season.

The new 12-team CFP is already causing consternation and controversy. But how and why did they land on this specific format? Here's the behind-the-scenes story from its architects.