Beamer offers insights on talks regarding the nine-game SEC schedule

Head coach Shane Beamer recently attended SEC meetings in New Orleans alongside other coaches and athletic directors, where a key topic of conversation was the potential move to a nine-game conference schedule. This idea, which has been discussed in recent years, is gaining momentum once again.

During a Tuesday afternoon appearance on 107.5 The Game, Beamer shared insights from the meetings about the ongoing discussions regarding the scheduling format. Reflecting on the topic, Beamer remarked, “I thought that was a discussion that we had in New Orleans that probably got more people injecting their opinion into that, ADs and coaches, than maybe any other topic that we talked about.” He noted the strong opinions around the table, with coaches and athletic directors alike questioning the potential impact of the scheduling change, as well as how it might affect the College Football Playoff and the SEC Championship Game. Beamer acknowledged that while there is support for the change, some athletic directors and coaches remain opposed to the idea of adding a ninth conference game, but stressed the importance of healthy discussion on the matter.

Beamer emphasized that it is crucial for SEC teams to align on future scheduling, ensuring fairness for all. He pointed out that, “If we are playing nine conference games plus Clemson… Miami… Virginia Tech,” while other teams don’t follow the same path, it wouldn’t make sense. He explained, “If we are all playing nine conference games plus two other Power Four games, then sure, come on. We are competitors and bring it on.” The goal, according to Beamer, is to make sure every team is operating under the same conditions for the benefit of the programs involved.

Beyond the nine-game schedule, Beamer also touched on discussions regarding a potential SEC-Big Ten scheduling agreement. This idea could see teams from the two conferences face off in future seasons. Beamer directly inquired about this possibility with SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey, asking whether such a partnership might be on the horizon. He added, “I think that’s something that we will continue to look at going down the road.” He believes both the fans and the teams would be excited about the idea, stating that Williams-Brice Stadium consistently provides a great environment, whether for games against Clemson or smaller matchups like Wofford and Furman. Beamer said, “Our fans want to see teams like Miami come to Columbia next year or a Big Ten team come to Columbia every other year. I’m certainly in favor of it, as well.”

However, Beamer stressed that any major scheduling changes need to ensure fairness for all teams. “If we’re all playing nine conference games, a Big Ten team, and then two money games, let’s make sure it’s right for everybody,” Beamer said, acknowledging that the complexities of the schedule must be carefully balanced.

One critical question Beamer raised was about the future of the College Football Playoff selection criteria. “If strength of schedule is not going to matter, which it clearly didn’t this year,” Beamer remarked, “then you also need to look at, are we doing what is best for our program and giving our team the best chance to compete for championships?” This reflects a growing concern among coaches about how playoff selection will evolve and whether their teams’ efforts in a more grueling schedule will be fairly recognized.

As discussions continue, Beamer and his colleagues are determined to ensure that any changes benefit everyone involved, while giving their teams the best possible chance to compete at the highest level.