By the way, the competition within the SEC is not limited to matchups against the Big Ten or Big 12 conferences. It’s also about teams within the SEC vying against each other. When Ole Miss recruits players who could have gone to Alabama, or South Carolina attracts talent that might have chosen Georgia, and Texas A&M signs players who were eyeing LSU, the balance shifts within the conference.
Gone are the days of Urban Meyer’s SEC, Nick Saban’s SEC, or even Kirby Smart’s SEC. In December 2023, when the SEC faced the possibility of being left out of the College Football Playoff, Commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized during an appearance on ESPN’s “College GameDay” that the landscape had changed. The SEC was no longer dominating as it had in the past.
Analogy to Sesame Street characters, Count von Count could easily point out the simple math of the SEC’s recent struggles in the playoffs, where they were outscored and outgained. Even when Texas narrowly defeated Arizona State, it was clear that perceptions of superiority were being challenged.
The sense of entitlement and arrogance that once characterized the SEC’s dominance is fading. The SEC, once the dominant force in college football, is now facing more competitive challenges. The recent defeats of top SEC teams and the changing dynamics indicate a shift in the balance of power.
Moving forward, humility and perspective are needed. The SEC’s past successes no longer guarantee automatic respect and favoritism. The landscape of college football is evolving, and the SEC must adapt to the changing environment.
While the SEC may regain its dominance in the future, the current reality suggests a more level playing field. Adaptation, competition, and humility are key to navigating the new era of college football.
It’s time to confront the truth: You’re now just another ordinary individual. This piece was first published on USA TODAY: SEC must confront the truth: Conference no longer dominates college football.
