Kirby Smart advocates for SEC break from NCAA during media days
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 5:54 AM
Last updated Jul 22, 2026
At SEC Media Days on July 22, Kirby Smart expressed his willingness to break from NCAA traditions, advocating for the SEC to establish independence from the organization. He cited the need for structural changes in college football and pointed to the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder as a model for success. Smart emphasized that tradition must not impede innovation in building competitive teams. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey acknowledged pressures within the conference, reinforcing that discussions about significant changes are underway.
- •Kirby Smart encourages the SEC to think beyond NCAA confines.
- •He draws inspiration from the NBA to evolve Georgia's strategy.
- •Smart's fifth playoff appearance underscores his commitment to winning.
- •SEC faces internal pressure for structural changes.
- •Commissioner Sankey confirms ongoing discussions about the conference's future.
- 5:54 AMYahoo Sports — Kirby Smart reveals the one SEC rule he’s willing to break forever
"Kirby Smart studies NBA models and urges the SEC to leave the NCAA, signaling a bold shift in college football strategy.
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