In a candid and wide-ranging address that underscored the shifting landscape of collegiate athletics, Southeastern Conference (SEC) Commissioner Greg Sankey delivered pointed remarks about the future of college football, the growing challenges facing the NCAA, and internal issues within his own powerhouse league. Speaking at a recent summit of athletic directors and media representatives, Sankey combined vision, critique, and caution in outlining what lies ahead for college sports.
The Future of College Football: Transformation Is Inevitable
Sankey acknowledged that college football stands at a crossroads, driven by changing economic dynamics, legal pressures, and the increasing professionalization of student-athletes. He highlighted that the traditional model of amateurism is no longer sustainable, especially in the wake of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) policies and ongoing legal scrutiny regarding athlete compensation.
> “We can’t pretend college football operates in a bubble anymore,” Sankey said. “If we want to preserve the spirit of the game, we must be willing to evolve its structure.”
He noted the potential for a more centralized governance model, particularly for major football programs, suggesting that the Power Five conferences may eventually separate from the NCAA for football oversight. Sankey emphasized the need for clarity and uniformity in regulations, particularly in the areas of NIL, transfer eligibility, and recruiting practices.
NCAA’s Challenges: Fractured Authority and Legal Threats
In his comments, Sankey did not shy away from criticizing the NCAA’s current state of governance. He described the association as being “reactive rather than proactive,” citing its inconsistent rule enforcement and inability to navigate modern legal landscapes effectively.
Sankey pointed to recent antitrust litigation and Congressional inaction on NIL regulations as key areas where the NCAA’s lack of agility has created chaos.
> “We’re in an environment where federal legislation is needed, yet Congress has been slow, and the NCAA has failed to provide a unifying vision,” Sankey remarked.
He warned that unless the NCAA adapts quickly, it could become obsolete—particularly as more conferences and institutions begin to act autonomously. Sankey urged for a reimagined governance structure that includes clear leadership, accountability, and collaboration with legal and political stakeholders.
Critique of the SEC: Success with Strains
While the SEC remains the gold standard in collegiate athletics—especially in football—Sankey was transparent about the league’s internal challenges. He acknowledged that the conference’s meteoric rise has brought with it pressures that threaten long-term sustainability, including scheduling inequities, academic imbalances, and the influence of media deals.
> “Just because we’re successful doesn’t mean we’re immune to flaws,” Sankey said. “We need to hold ourselves to a higher standard—not just on Saturdays, but every day of the week.”
He cited issues like competitive imbalance, increasing travel burdens for student-athletes, and the erosion of traditional rivalries as unintended consequences of recent expansion moves, such as the additions of Texas and Oklahoma. Sankey emphasized the importance of preserving the student-athlete experience amid commercial growth.
He also pushed for more investment in mental health resources, academic support, and diversity initiatives within the SEC, calling on university presidents and athletic departments to align their priorities beyond revenue generation.
Conclusion: Leadership in an Era of Change
Greg Sankey’s remarks underscored his role not only as a steward of the SEC but as one of college athletics’ most influential voices. His willingness to critique his own league while offering pointed insights into the systemic challenges plaguing the NCAA demonstrates a leader grappling with a complex, evolving system.
As college football barrels toward a future that may look markedly different from its past, Sankey’s voice will continue to shape the conversation—balancing tradition with transformation.
> “We’re not just here to defend a system,” Sankey concluded. “We’re here to build a better one.”
