Georgia head coach Kirby Smart has voiced support for the Southeastern Conference (SEC) potentially governing itself outside of the NCAA, particularly if federal legislative action on key college athletics issues remains stalled. Smart, speaking as the "Dean of SEC coaches," expressed that if Congress does not provide a framework for governance, conferences like the SEC should consider establishing their own rules.
Smart indicated that he has been advocating for such autonomy for a significant period. He believes that without a governing body that possesses the power to make decisions, or the ability for conferences to make decisions within their own structures, there will be limited control over the sport's direction. "Until we get governance and we have someone that actually has the power to make decisions, or we can make decisions within our own community, we're not going to have much control," Smart stated.
The comments come amid ongoing discussions about the future of college sports, including the complexities of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations and the impact of the transfer portal. Smart suggested that coaches within the SEC are in constant communication, discussing issues ranging from the transfer portal and NIL to eligibility and day-to-day rulings.
Smart, who has led Georgia to multiple national championship appearances, expressed that the increasing parity in college football is beneficial for the sport. He welcomed the current landscape, noting that it allows more athletes opportunities and that programs are not solely dominant. "I think it's great for the sport," Smart said. "More guys can get invited to the party, especially with the transfer portal. It's not a one team dominate program."
His perspective on potential conference autonomy is echoed by concerns that other conferences might feel left out if major conferences were to pursue independent governance. The discussion also touches upon reports of senators considering provisions that could require teams changing conferences to operate independently for a period. Smart's remarks suggest that if Congress is actively shaping new provisions for college sports legislation, then conferences should also be able to discuss and enforce their own rules.
Georgia's starting quarterback, Gunner Stockton, addressed the team culture under Smart, emphasizing that Smart fosters an environment where on-field performance dictates playing time, regardless of NIL compensation. Stockton stated that Smart's leadership has built a strong culture at Georgia.
The conversation around the NCAA's governance and the potential for conference-led solutions highlights a critical juncture for college athletics, with figures like Smart advocating for decisive action to address the evolving challenges within the sport.