College Football Realignment: The Threat to Historic Conferences and Rivalries
In recent years, college football has witnessed a wave of realignment within NCAA conferences. With teams making strategic moves and switching allegiances, many fans are left wondering who is to blame for the changes that threaten the stability of long-standing conferences and historic rivalries. The latest scapegoat, according to Arizona State’s president, is the overlords of the media empire. But is it really that simple?
The realignments dictated by football have undoubtedly complicated the schedules of other teams on campus. The departures of Arizona State and USC, for example, pose a significant threat to conferences like the old Pac-12, which now finds itself reduced to just four schools after losing eight to greener pastures. This downsizing not only raises concerns about the solvency of the conference but also puts cherished rivalries and classic games in jeopardy.
The impact goes beyond sports nostalgia. College rivalries within conferences have a profound influence on local economies, support countless scholarships that extend beyond athletics, and foster connections among strangers. Losing these rivalries would sever us from a rich sports history. While cynicism towards the NCAA and the business of college sports is understandable, it is disheartening to witness the erosion of tradition and heritage brought about by realignment.
However, amidst the concerns, there may be opportunities for growth. The increased potential for high-profile matchups throughout the season could generate greater interest and revenue. USC’s entry into the Big Ten, for instance, holds the promise of exciting business opportunities. Yet, while these changes may benefit the present and future of college football, they undoubtedly come at the expense of cherished nostalgia—a driving force behind boosters who have long supported college sports.
When it comes to pinpointing the culprit behind these transformations, blame has been aimed in various directions. Washington State’s athletic director blamed former conference commissioner Larry Scott for the demise of the Pac-12, while others point fingers at recent developments that allow student-athletes to transfer more freely and monetize their image. Arizona State’s president even invoked the metaphorical wisdom of Yoda, suggesting that overlords of the media empire played a role in this realignment.
But the truth is simpler—colleges make decisions driven by money. Deion Coach Prime Sanders put it bluntly: Everybody’s chasing the bag. As someone raised in a Big Ten Conference state, I wish the families of California football players well as they navigate the changing landscape in pursuit of financial gain.
Interestingly, the greed inherent in college football’s pursuit of revenue has damaged its own brand. It is ironic to consider that the NCAA’s failure to compensate student-athletes, many of whom are Black, while violating the Sherman Anti-Trust Act of 1890, sparked the initial upheaval. The subsequent dissolution of traditional conferences and the emergence of independent powerhouses such as Notre Dame, which capitalized on their unique position by securing lucrative TV deals, exemplifies this shift.
Notre Dame’s decision to go independent undoubtedly benefited the university. However, it is crucial to recognize that this strategy may not be suitable for other conferences. The Pac-12, for instance, has suffered as more colleges prioritize their own interests. While independence may have allowed Notre Dame to amass financial success, it may not be a viable path for the rest of college football.
As the blame game continues, the truly intriguing aspect lies in finding solutions. Chip Kelly, head football coach at UCLA, proposed looking to Notre Dame as the answer, suggesting that all teams should be independent for football. However, this perspective overlooks the historical context. Notre Dame’s independence arose from a 1984 Supreme Court ruling that stripped the NCAA’s control over college football’s television rights, not from some noble ideal. The university seized the opportunity, leaving its revenue-sharing rivals far behind by signing an exclusive deal with NBC in 1991.
It is essential to consider the repercussions of following Notre Dame’s path. Their success has not translated into fair compensation for student-athletes, as evidenced by their inability to pay them. It is crucial to strike a balance between financial gain and equity in college football.
In the quest for a solution, it is imperative to acknowledge the underlying motivations for realignment and the consequences it may bring. Yes, money plays a significant role, but it is essential to consider the impact on tradition, rivalries, and the spirit of college football. As fans and stakeholders, we must hope that creative ideas will emerge to address these concerns and sustain the legacy of the game. The decisions made by colleges should not only maximize revenue but also preserve the essence of college football for generations to come.
In conclusion, the current realignment threatens the very foundations of historic conferences and cherished rivalries in college football. While financial motivations drive these changes, it is vital to strike a balance between revenue generation and safeguarding the rich history of the sport. As the blame game continues, it is the search for innovative solutions that will shape the future of college football and determine whether its legacy endures.
