Part 4/7:
With increased financial commitments and alumni support, it seems likely that the Big Ten will remain a dominant force in college football for years to come. Other strong contenders like Oregon, Washington, and the recent addition of Texas to the SEC also indicate a rising level of competition—not just regionally, but nationally.
The Era of High-Stakes Recruitment
The recruitment landscape has changed dramatically due to NIL and financial considerations. Coaches are no longer just vying for the best talents based on a school’s history, facilities, or coaching staff; they are now competing with enormous financial packages. Coaches like Nick Saban have openly acknowledged the difficulties of competing against schools with affluent funding bases.