Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; A general view of the field and the SEC logo before the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Clemson Tigers in the CFP National Playoff first round game at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
The Southeastern Conference (SEC) announced a significant change to its football schedule, implementing a nine-game conference format starting in 2026. This decision is designed to enhance competitive balance and fan engagement, reinforcing the SEC’s reputation as a leader in collegiate athletics. The announcement, made on August 21, 2025, has raised several questions regarding its implications for other conferences, scheduling practices, and the upcoming College Football Playoff (CFP) structure.
Impact on Other Conferences
One of the most pressing questions revolves around the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Currently, the ACC operates on an eight-game conference schedule. According to college football reporter Ross Dellenger, momentum is building for the SEC’s schedule change to influence the ACC to follow suit. However, with the ACC comprising 17 teams, transitioning to a nine-game schedule presents logistical challenges.
The SEC’s shift could pressurize the ACC to reconsider its scheduling strategy. If the ACC opts for a nine-game format, it would align all four power conferences—SEC, ACC, Big Ten, and Big 12—under a similar structure. Interestingly, discussions about adding an 18th team to the ACC may gain traction, especially considering the conference’s existing scheduling agreement with Notre Dame.
Scheduling Dynamics and FCS Games
Another concern is whether SEC teams will still schedule games against Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) opponents. Adding a ninth conference game means that one non-conference game will likely be removed from the schedule. This could lead SEC programs to prioritize less competitive matchups against FCS teams, which may detract from the excitement and challenge fans anticipate in the regular season.
The SEC’s decision to focus on competitive games is commendable, yet it’s essential to ensure that the removal of challenging non-conference games does not diminish the overall quality of the season. Fans may find little satisfaction in matchups where teams secure easy victories against significantly outmatched opponents.
College Football Playoff Considerations
The impact of the SEC’s new schedule on the College Football Playoff format is another critical aspect. The SEC has traditionally been at odds with the Big Ten regarding playoff structures. The Big Ten favors a 4-4-2-2-1 format that would secure four automatic qualifiers, whereas the SEC has supported a model that rewards the five highest-ranked conference champions alongside 11 at-large teams.
With the SEC adopting a nine-game schedule, it could become more open to the idea of automatic qualifiers, as increased competition among teams may bolster its chances of securing multiple playoff spots. Last season, the SEC managed only two at-large berths in the expanded 12-team playoff, which highlighted the need for a more robust representation. The conference’s new schedule could pave the way for it to claim a greater share of playoff opportunities in the future.
The SEC’s preseason poll, published by the Associated Press on August 11, 2025, showcased 10 ranked SEC teams, underscoring the conference’s strength. As commissioner Greg Sankey navigates these changes, the SEC’s emphasis on securing “quality losses” will remain significant, potentially allowing for further representation in upcoming playoff seasons.
While many questions remain regarding the SEC’s nine-game schedule, the changes set to take effect in 2026 will likely have ripple effects throughout college football. The outcomes of these developments could reshape not only the SEC’s competitive landscape but also influence other conferences and the overall structure of the College Football Playoff.
