In a significant shift for college football, the NCAA's Football Oversight Committee has recommended that the official start of the season be moved to before Labor Day weekend starting in 2027. This proposal, which is still pending approval from the Division I Cabinet, would allow teams 14 weeks to schedule 12 games, including two bye weeks. Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea emphasized the importance of this change for player health and safety, stating that going through a season without two bye weeks can negatively impact players and coaches. The proposal also aims to eliminate exceptions that have allowed teams to start their seasons earlier, addressing a trend where schools have sought waivers for earlier games. If adopted, this change would also preserve standalone weekends for key matchups, such as conference championships and the Army-Navy game. The Cabinet is expected to discuss this recommendation in June.