Nick Saban, Alberto Mendoza, and the SEC's weakened grip on college football

The Big Ten has emerged as a dominant force in college football, securing three consecutive national championships from 2023 to 2025. This success has highlighted a shift in power traditionally held by the Southeastern Conference (SEC), which has not had a team in the championship game during this period. The recent titles were claimed by Michigan, Ohio State, and the unexpected victor, Indiana.

The SEC's decline in championship appearances has been attributed to several factors, including the dispersal of talent due to the transfer portal and the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Meanwhile, the Big Ten's coaching superiority has been noted, with key figures like Ryan Day, Dan Lanning, and Curt Cignetti leading successful programs.

The SEC's challenging schedule, characterized by frequent high-stakes matchups, may contribute to player fatigue and limited opportunities for developing depth, contrasting with the Big Ten's schedule, which allows for more strategic rest and rotation. The SEC's traditional