BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (February 2, 2024) - In a move to address the complex and pressing challenges faced by college athletics, the Big Ten Conference and the Southeastern Conference (SEC) have announced the creation of a joint advisory group. Comprised of university presidents, chancellors, and athletics directors, this group aims to find sustainable solutions for the future of college sports.

The challenges that prompted the formation of this advisory group include recent court decisions, pending litigation, a patchwork of state laws, and complex governance proposals. These factors have compelled the two conferences, which have substantial investments in the NCAA, to take a leadership role in shaping the future of college athletics.

Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti emphasized the importance of the joint effort, stating, "The Big Ten and the SEC have recognized the similarity in our circumstances and the urgency to address the common challenges we face." The advisory group will bring together voices from both conferences, acknowledging that their perspectives are integral to governance and other reform efforts.

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey highlighted the cultural and social impacts of the evolving collegiate athletics environment on student-athletes, institutions, and communities. While acknowledging that there are no ready-made answers to the multitude of questions they face, Sankey expressed confidence that enhancing interaction between the conferences would help focus efforts on common sense solutions.

The joint advisory group is not intended to act independently but rather serve as a consulting body, as clarified in the release. Its composition, charter, timetable, and the specific questions it will examine are yet to be determined. However, it is expected that the alliance will engage with other crucial parties, including student-athletes and key leadership groups from both conferences, to ensure a comprehensive approach.

While the release does not explicitly mention a focus on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) issues, the ongoing concerns surrounding NIL, recruiting, and the transfer calendar are likely to be among the pressing matters that the group will address. With spring football sessions for 2024 already underway, addressing these issues promptly will be of utmost importance.

The alignment of the two wealthiest conferences in college football, the Big Ten and the SEC, is expected to carry significant influence. However, the joint advisory group's primary goal is to collaborate and share expertise to develop solutions for the betterment of the student-athlete experience and the long-term sustainability of college sports.

As discussions and consultations progress, it remains to be seen what concrete actions the advisory group will recommend. Nevertheless, this partnership between the Big Ten and SEC signals a united front in addressing the challenges faced by college athletics and a commitment to finding practical and effective solutions.