[EricH]

Originally Posted by CalTran

Yeah, for the past um, few years back. I don't know the original year that has been, but it's been there since at least 2010, probably longer.

2005, IIRC. Something like that. (2006 for sure--I remember seeing backups that year.)

It's up to 8. Really, it depends on the FTA how many are told to be ready to play. Often, no more than 4 are given the notice; I remember a case where the top backup left--and the 2nd one was still there, and got a finalist out of it. Generally speaking, after QFs, no more than 4 will still be around--the rest will be allowed to pack up.