The SEC will switch to a nine-game conference football schedule starting in 2026. This decision, reached after much debate among athletic directors, aims to boost competitiveness and improve the conference's standing in the College Football Playoff. Each team will play three permanent rivals and six rotating opponents. This change follows discussions about the CFP format and schedule strength, with the SEC seeking to enhance its playoff chances. The move might influence other conferences like the ACC to adopt similar scheduling changes. The SEC will also continue to require each school to play one other Power 5 opponent.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.