WASHINGTON, DEC. 7, 2005 - "The purpose of this hearing is to have an open discussion on how the Bowls, the BCS, and the ranking system operate and their impact on revenues for the colleges and universities; to examine how to facilitate smaller conferences' participation in the Bowls given the revenue disparity under the current system; and to consider the impact of any system on the academic integrity of the student athletes and their institutions," stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL), Chairman of the Commerce, Trade & Consumer Protection Subcommittee.
Explained Stearns, "An invitation to a Bowl game, particularly one of the four Bowls under contract with the BCS, is a great honor and also translates into millions of dollars in additional revenue. However, since its inception, the BCS has generated controversy. Critics offer a number of alternatives and variations, among them a mini-NFL playoff system."
The Chancellor of the University of Mississippi, Robert Khayat, expressed opposition to a playoff system. He stated, "There is a great deal of discussion about a national playoff structure that would extend football season well into January. It is my belief that most if not all presidents and chancellors oppose a playoff format for several reasons: The season would be extended into January and, therefore, intrude upon the Spring semester...There is no reason to believe that a playoff format would produce an undisputed national champion."
Derrick Fox, Chairman of the Football Bowl Association, outlined the economic impact of the current system, "What does it mean to the 24 or 25 communities where the games are held? For one thing, since virtually all the post-season Bowl Games are put on by charitable groups and since up to one-quarter of the proceeds from the game are dedicated to the community, local charities receive tens of millions of dollars every year. Excluding the television and print exposure that these communities get, it has been estimated that the Bowl games generate $1.1 billion in annual economic impact."
"This hearing represents my continuing interest in the impact of big money in college sports on college athletics, the student athletes, and their institutions. In addition, we all have an interest in promoting fairness in the system. I am hopeful that this hearing will generate a re-examination of the BCS system with an open mind toward possible reforms," concluded Stearns.
For Further Information Please Contact Paul Flusche at 202-225-5744 or Email.
