Greg Sankey reveals models in place to protect two rivalry games if 8 game SEC schedule remains

As the SEC scheduling model relies on bigger picture issues, how the eight or nine-game setups look is not set in stone. If the conference decides to stick at eight, multiple longstanding rivalries will be put in jeopardy on an annual basis. Even some big-time matchups the SEC just added to their already loaded Rolodex of matchups.

Commissioner Greg Sankey was asked about those types of games Tuesday during SEC Spring Meetings in Destin. His answer was noncommittal but did admit there are eight-game models where certain teams can have more than one protected rival.

“Sankey says he won’t commit to anything but if the SEC winds up sticking with an eight-game conference schedule, there are models that protect more than one rivalry per team,” On3’s Andy Staples said via X.

For years, the SEC made sure to get certain games on the calendar despite not being in the same division. The Third Saturday in October between Alabama and Tennessee, along with Auburn–Georgia — AKA the Deep South’s Oldest Rivalry — are the two chief examples. Seeing those matchups played every other year is hard to imagine from the SEC’s standpoint.

Looking a little more modern, only having one protected rival means Texas and Texas A&M would not play every season. Texas facing Oklahoma in the Red River Shootout at the Cotton Bowl trumps all on the 40 Acres, even the in-state foe. And from a Texas A&M standpoint, making sure the LSU contest remains is key for the fan base.

A final decision on the eight-game vs. nine-game model will not be made on how many rivalries are played, though. Texas A&M athletic director Trev Alberts publicly admitted the future College Football Playoff format plays a massive role, in his opinion. SEC ADs are going to want guaranteed spots in the CFP before adding another brutal conference showdown to the slate.

“I personally – if we get where we can with playoff (selection) – think 9 (SEC) games makes sense but it doesn’t make sense if we’re not guaranteed (playoff spots),” Alberts said via Brett McMurphy.

But from a fan perspective, many care about these games getting played. An extra headache or two might be created for the SEC schedule creators if the models Sankey mentioned Tuesday are put into practice.

However, those who receive the television ratings and get to put out a nice social media graphic will not be complaining. More rivalries usually equal better numbers, making the SEC and ESPN quite happy.