James Franklin has reignited the conversation about college football’s urgent need for a commissioner, a role he believes is essential for navigating the sport’s rapidly changing landscape. With the advent of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, the transfer portal, and potential revenue sharing with student-athletes, Franklin argues that a single leader could help unify and elevate the game.
Franklin’s Bold Proposal
At a recent Fiesta Bowl media day, Franklin passionately stated, “Let’s get a commissioner of college football that is waking up every single morning and going to bed every single night making decisions that’s in the best interest of college football.” His enthusiasm for the idea was palpable, and he even suggested that Nick Saban would be the perfect candidate for the role. “I think Nick Saban would be the obvious choice if we made that decision,” he added with a grin. However, he acknowledged that Saban might not be on board with the suggestion, anticipating a call from the Alabama coach saying, “Don’t do this.”
Why a Commissioner is Necessary
The landscape of college football is evolving at a breakneck pace. With the introduction of NIL, players now have opportunities to profit from their own brand, while the transfer portal has made it easier for athletes to switch schools. In this environment, Franklin believes that a commissioner could provide a steady hand to guide the sport through these changes. “I think there’s just a ton of things that need to be discussed and looked at,” he remarked. “We need to do it with people that do not feel the pressure from their university or their conference.”
This perspective reflects a growing sentiment among coaches and fans alike: college football has outgrown the traditional NCAA framework. As Franklin pointed out, the sport is bigger than the NCAA as a whole, and it could benefit from a centralized leadership structure similar to that of the NFL. “Still, Franklin likely isn’t far off in suggesting the sport is bigger than the NCAA as a whole,” he noted, hinting at the potential for a more organized approach to governance.
Saban’s Reaction
Interestingly, Franklin’s suggestion of Saban as a commissioner didn’t sit well with the Alabama head coach. During a recent College GameDay appearance, Saban shot Franklin a glare while the rest of the panel chuckled at the notion. Franklin later recounted a call he had with Saban before the Orange Bowl, where the legendary coach made it clear he wasn’t thrilled about being promoted for such a significant role. “He wasn’t real happy about me promoting him for the commissioner of college football,” Franklin said, showcasing the light-hearted tension between the two coaches.
Other Candidates for the Role
While Saban may be the most recognizable name in college football, Franklin emphasized that there are other qualified candidates who could take on the commissioner role. He mentioned Chris Peterson and Dave Clawson as potential leaders who could bring valuable perspectives to the position. “I think having somebody in that position would be valuable for our sport and for our student athletes,” he asserted. This openness to exploring various candidates demonstrates Franklin’s commitment to finding the best fit for the job.
The Future of College Football
As college football continues to grow and evolve, the need for a commissioner becomes increasingly apparent. The sport is facing challenges that require a unified approach, and a dedicated leader could help navigate these complexities. Franklin’s vision for a commissioner who prioritizes the best interests of college football aligns with the aspirations of many within the sport.
Imagine a future where college football is governed by someone who understands the intricacies of the game and the needs of its athletes. Could a commissioner help bridge the gap between universities, conferences, and the players themselves? The idea is certainly worth exploring.
A Call to Action
Franklin’s call for a commissioner is not just a personal opinion; it reflects a broader desire for change within college football. The time has come for stakeholders in the sport to come together and discuss the possibility of a centralized leadership structure. What would it take to make this vision a reality? Could the sport benefit from a more organized approach, similar to what we see in professional leagues?
As fans, players, and coaches, we all have a stake in the future of college football. It’s time to engage in this conversation and advocate for the changes that could elevate the game we love. Whether it’s through social media, fan forums, or direct communication with athletic departments, every voice counts in this important dialogue.
In the end, the goal is clear: to ensure that college football continues to thrive and evolve in a way that benefits everyone involved. With passionate advocates like James Franklin leading the charge, there’s hope for a brighter future for the sport.
