SEC set to move to nine-game conference slate in 2026

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (KMIZ)

Beginning in 2026, the SEC will be adding one more game to the conference slate, moving to a nine-game schedule, amidst the recent expansion of the College Football Playoff.

“Adding a ninth SEC game underscores our universities’ commitment to delivering the most competitive football schedule in the nation,” SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey said in a press release, on Thursday. “This format protects rivalries, increases competitive balance, and paired with our requirement to play an additional Power opponent, ensures SEC teams are well prepared to compete and succeed in the College Football Playoff.”

Under the new format, the Southeastern Conference will continue on with single-standings, meaning there will be a no divisions. Each program will play three annual opponents, with a specific focus on maintaining all of the traditional rivalries.

The SEC also said that each team's remaining six games will rotate among the conference schools that are leftover, as teas will face every other SEC program at least once every two years and every single opponent home and away in four years.

The league is also requiring teams to schedule at least one additional high quality, non-conference game from the Atlantic Coast, Big Ten or Big 12 conferences or Notre Dame each season.

“The SEC has established itself as the leader in delivering the most compelling football schedule in college athletics,” Sankey said. “Fans will see traditional rivalries preserved, new matchups more frequently, and a level of competition unmatched across the nation.”