College football world erupts over SEC’s move to 9-game league schedule
By Derek Hryn
Published:
The SEC officially confirmed Thursday that it will expand its conference schedule to 9 games beginning in 2026.
“Adding a ninth SEC game underscores our universities’ commitment to delivering the most competitive football schedule in the nation,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said in a statement from the league. “This format protects rivalries, increases competitive balance, and paired with our requirement to play an additional Power opponent, ensures SEC teams are well prepared to compete and succeed in the College Football Playoff.”
Reactions to the announcement immediately erupted across the college football landscape.
Under the new format, each team will play 3 permanent annual opponents, while the remaining 6 conference games rotate, ensuring every SEC program faces each other at least once every 2 years and completes a full home-and-away cycle every 4 seasons. Additionally, schools must schedule at least 1 power conference opponent annually.
“The SEC has established itself as the leader in delivering the most compelling football schedule in college athletics,” Sankey said. “Fans will see traditional rivalries preserved, new matchups more frequently, and a level of competition unmatched across the nation.”
As the 2025 season approaches, fans will have ample time to sit and ponder the implications of a 9-game slate.
