There is now more uniformity across conferences in college football, and that could mean the SEC and Big Ten are one step closer to agreeing on the format of the College Football Playoff for the 2026 season.

The SEC is reportedly on the verge of a major change to its football schedule. The Southeastern Conference is widely regarded as the top college football conference in the country. While the Big Ten has won the past two national championships - Ohio State in 2024 and Michigan in 2023 - the SEC had

SEC announced Thursday a controversial football schedule change to match the Big Ten, with the conference adding a ninth game to it schedule as it looks ahead to the College Football Playoff

The SEC is moving to a nine-game conference schedule in 2026, ending a yearslong debate and potentially easing a path toward another College Football Playoff expansion.

“This decision highlights our commitment to the most competitive football schedule in the nation,” SEC commissioner Greg Sankey said in a release. “The new format keeps historic rivalries intact, increases balance, and paired with the additional Power opponent, ensures our teams are ready for the College Football Playoff.”