Chip Kelly, the head coach of UCLA football, has proposed a unique solution to address the challenges and complexities of college football. His idea involves adopting a one-conference model, similar to the structure seen in the NFL, where teams are divided into divisions based on geography. Kelly believes that this approach would significantly reduce the need for cross-country travel and preserve rivalries, ultimately bringing a sense of simplicity and common sense to the sport.
College football has been plagued by ceaseless realignment, marred by rivalries and traditions torn apart. Recent reports of Oregon and Washington potentially joining the Big Ten Conference in 2024 have only added to the uncertainty surrounding conferences and their future. Florida State is another school considering a departure from the Atlantic Coast Conference in search of more lucrative opportunities.
UCLA, on the other hand, seems to have found some stability. With their move to the Big Ten already planned, the Bruins know their future conference alignment. Chip Kelly commended UCLA Chancellor Gene Block for his foresight and credited Athletic Director Martin Jarmond for orchestrating the conference move.
The addition of Oregon and Washington to the Big Ten could alleviate some of the travel concerns for other West Coast schools like UCLA and USC. However, it’s worth noting that the Trojans and Bruins were not believed to be in favor of the Ducks joining them in the Big Ten.
Kelly, drawing from his experience coaching in the NFL, doesn’t anticipate many adjustments when it comes to travel and performance for UCLA in the Big Ten. He explained that staying on their body clocks and adhering to consistent schedules can mitigate any potential jetlag. For example, if UCLA were to play an East Coast team in the Big Ten, they would maintain their regular time schedule by leaving on Friday, playing a noon game (3:30 p.m. for the opposing team) on Saturday, and returning immediately thereafter. This approach would help minimize the impact of travel on player performance.
While Kelly appreciates the simplicity and geographic alignment of a one-conference model, he acknowledges the potential challenges it may pose. Powerhouse teams like Alabama subsidizing weaker teams and finding equitable solutions would be key considerations in implementing such a structure.
Although realignment remains a contentious topic in college football, Chip Kelly’s proposal offers a new perspective and sparks a conversation about alternative models that prioritize reduced travel and preserve rivalries. As the landscape of college football continues to evolve, finding a balance between tradition and practicality will be crucial in shaping the future of the sport.
