Kirby Smart Proposes SEC vs. Big Ten Football Challenge to Settle Conference Debate

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has proposed a radical solution to college football’s biggest argument. He wants an annual SEC vs. Big Ten challenge. The idea was shared on The Pat McAfee Show ahead of a major conference game.

This concept would mirror the successful ACC-SEC Challenge in basketball. It aims to provide a clear, head-to-head measure of conference strength.

Addressing the Scheduling Dilemma and Fan Interest

The SEC is moving to a nine-game conference schedule in 2026. This change limits opportunities for non-conference games against other major leagues. Smart noted this reduces cross-conference matchups that fans crave.

Creating a scheduled event would guarantee these premier games. However, future schedules are often booked years in advance. This logistical hurdle presents a significant challenge for organizers.

A New Metric for the “Greatest Debate” in Sports

The debate over college football’s top conference is constant. National championships have recently shifted to the Big Ten. The SEC, however, dominated for nearly two decades prior.

According to Reuters, such a challenge would offer direct, regular comparison. It moves beyond rankings and speculation to on-field results. This provides undeniable evidence of which conference reigns supreme.

The proposed SEC vs. Big Ten challenge could finally settle the endless debate. It promises high-stakes football and definitive answers for fans nationwide.

Thought you’d like to know-

What exactly did Kirby Smart propose?

He suggested an annual, scheduled event pitting SEC teams against Big Ten teams. This would be similar to the existing basketball challenges between major conferences.

Why is this idea gaining attention now?

The SEC’s move to a nine-game conference schedule reduces non-conference slots. This makes high-profile inter-conference games rarer and more valuable.

Has anything like this been tried before in football?

No, this type of structured, conference-wide challenge is unprecedented in college football. It is a novel concept for the sport.

What is the biggest obstacle to making this happen?

Future schedules are locked in many years in advance. Finding a date that works for all involved teams is the primary logistical challenge.

How does Smart suggest we currently measure conference strength?

He points to NFL Draft numbers as a key indicator. The conference that produces the most drafted players often has the best teams.