BCS Could Do Without Automatic Qualifiers, Suggests Roy Kramer

The idea of eliminating automatic qualifier status from the next round of BCS deals has popped up a lot lately. New Big 12 commissioner Chuck Neinas told CBS Sports he supports eliminating AQ rights for conferences, a move he thinks would slow down conference "gerrymandering" for BCS bowl bids.

Now former SEC commissioner Roy Kramer, the so-called father of the BCS, is mulling the switch. Appearing on the Paul Finebaum show, Kramer considered the possibility. 

@dennisdoddcbs Kramer suggests elimination of AQ status. "Could be controversial." Wow, if Kramer sez it must be gaining traction.    

He did go on to defend the BCS, saying it's opened up opportunities for Boise State and others and has increased college football interest. So it's not an outright call for overhaul by any means, but if perhaps the BCS' oldest fan is calling for a significant change, it's a good sign for the future of the sport's postseason. Not in the short term, because this would mean Boise State could be screwed out of a bigger bowl even if it wins a power conference, but in the long term.

If such a rule were to have been implemented for this season, for instance, Boise State wouldn't necessarily be a BCS doubtful after having lost only one game.