Older Players Dominate College Football Rosters as Extra Eligibility Takes Hold

College football's pandemic-related rule allowing players to extend their eligibility by an extra year has a lasting impact on the sport. Hundreds of Bowl Subdivision players are now in their sixth season of eligibility, with dozens heading into their seventh year or later. This trend is particularly evident in teams with multiple seventh-year players, including Oklahoma State, Utah, Tennessee, Rutgers, Toledo, and Utah State. Coaches, however, see the benefits of this experienced roster, including reduced mistakes and improved football.

Key Takeaways:

• Oklahoma State, Utah, Tennessee, Rutgers, Toledo, and Utah State are among the schools with multiple seventh-year players, underscoring the prevalence of older players in college football.
• No less than 14 schools have players in their sixth season of eligibility, and dozens are entering their seventh year or later.
• Players like Alan Bowman (Oklahoma State), Cameron McCormick (Miami), and Cam Rising (Utah) are benefiting from extra eligibility, allowing them to extend their college careers.
• The impact of the pandemic rule is not just about individual players; it has profoundly changed the landscape of college football.
• With so many experienced players on the field, teams are attempting to regain their footing, seeking to rectify the mistakes that experienced players prevent.
• As stated by Alan Bowman, "There's a lot more good football being played, you don't see as many mistakes from us older guys."
• Bowman, now 24, has seen his college career extend into the seventh year, a reality that "has allowed him to get a wide-ranging education," with degrees in business management from Texas Tech and a master's in supply chain management from Michigan.

Statistics:

• FBS teams averaged 5.83 penalties and 51.15 penalty yards per game last season, the lowest numbers in both categories since 2013.
• Players with extra eligibility have extended their college careers into mid-20s, with a few players reaching their ninth season of eligibility, such as Miami's Cameron McCormick.
• Oklahoma State has 15 players entering their sixth season or later.
• This increased age diversity of players creates a more mature and individualized football experience.
• Alan Bowman started his college career as a true freshman at Texas Tech, and his situation is not unique in this era of college football.

Sources:

• AP News service