Josh Heupel subtly reveals which new SEC scheduling model he prefers for Tennessee
With Texas and Oklahoma set to join the conference in 2024, the SEC will soon have a new scheduling format. For a while, it's been assumed that the conference will move to a nine-game schedule that features three permanent opponents for each program. But it might not be that easy. Sports Illustrated's Ross Dellenger reported […]
With Texas and Oklahoma set to join the conference in 2024, the SEC will soon have a new scheduling format. For a while, it's been assumed that the conference will move to a nine-game schedule that features three permanent opponents for each program.
But it might not be that easy.
Sports Illustrated's Ross Dellenger reported recently that league administrators are "split" on the new scheduling format.
"League administrators are believed to be split on the issue—a divide that, for the most part, is along revenue-generating lines," wrote Dellenger. "Many of the conference’s smaller-budget schools are in favor of remaining at eight games, and many of the bigger-budget programs support a move to nine."
Dellenger also pointed out that Alabama head coach Nick Saban (his opinion obviously carries some weight) said earlier this spring that he prefers an eight-game format (which would mean just one permanent opponent for each SEC program).
On Monday, during a Big Orange Caravan stop in Chattanooga, Tennessee Vols head coach Josh Heupel was asked about the SEC schedule debate.
Heupel declined to get too specific about which scheduling model he prefers, though he subtly hinted that he'd prefer the nine-game format that features three permanent opponents for each program.
"There has been a lot of debate from the commissioner to the athletic directors," said Heupel when asked about the scheduling debate. "I have no idea where they’re at at this point…I think it’s important you keep traditional rivalries. That you get a chance to play those games that mean a bunch to your fanbase and guys inside your locker room too.”
Heupel's response certainly suggests that he wants to see multiple rivalries preserved for the Vols. And the only way to do that moving forward would be via the nine-game format.
Saban usually carries a lot of influence in these sorts of discussions, but he might be fighting a losing battle this time. A nine-game schedule will equal more revenue for the SEC. It's hard to see them passing up this opportunity to finally add a ninth conference game to the schedule.
