From the sidelines
Marty Gordon
College football is controlling the message for all other sports.
Yes, football does generate the money to fund all of the other programs at schools like Virginia Tech, but what is going on at the present time is not what we expected. Matter of fact, the “mega” conferences that will be setting the agenda is setting the stage to ruin the college football landscape as we know it.
But there is a solution that no one has discussed, which could solve all of the problems. Today, we will lay it out so everyone can understand. The problem is that the people in charge will not even consider it.
First, there has to be a person in charge of college football. The NCAA has no control over the gridiron and athletic directors need to admit it. Be honest here and agree to appoint or hire a person in charge of nothing but college football.
The prime example is how the National Football League is set up with a commissioner. Under such a plan, there could finally be someone who can make decisions.
Secondly, there must be an agreement for “football-only” conferences. This would allow for the increase in football money, while allowing conferences to remain “geographic” in all other sports. Virginia Tech does not need to play Stanford in tennis and soccer. The ACC could remain intact.
Thirdly, all of the conferences must have division separation for all sports. The ACC had it right but changed it in the past few years. The Atlantic and Coastal Division simply made sense and do now again.
If something is not done, college football as we know it is done, and the environment like at Lane Stadium will no longer matter.
The price of a ticket will definitely have to increase, and the question is whether it will ever be as popular as it is now.
Save college football! College football fans matter despite the fact athletic directors around the country no longer believe it. Fans are important. Don’t forget who is paying that price at the gate.
