Peter Burns fact-checked after Big Ten critique on SEC schedule
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 4, 2026, 11:15 PM
Last updated Aug 4, 2026
Peter Burns, an ESPN SEC reporter, faced backlash on social media for his assertion that no Big Ten teams would face at least five opponents in the preseason AP Top 25 coaches poll. In his post, Burns claimed nine SEC teams would do so. However, Big Ten supporters quickly corrected him, listing eight teams from their conference set to face five or more ranked opponents. This exchange highlights the ongoing rivalry between the SEC and Big Ten. Following the critique, insights into the SEC's schedule were also called into question, revealing 13 SEC teams scheduled against top-25 competition. The discourse surrounding college football rankings remains intense as both conferences vie for supremacy.
- •Burns incorrectly stated no Big Ten teams face five ranked opponents.
- •Eight Big Ten teams are confirmed to play five top-25 opponents.
- •Thirteen SEC teams scheduled to play at least five ranked matches.
- •The critique reignited the SEC vs. Big Ten rivalry ahead of the season.
- 11:15 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN SEC reporter Peter Burns immediately fact-checked on attempted Big Ten critique
"The war of words between the SEC and Big Ten saw its latest battle fought on social media on Tuesday. ESPN SEC reporter Peter Burns shared a graphic of the initial coaches poll published by USA Today, listing the top 25 teams in the country as voted by coaches across college football. Burns added his…
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