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6d ago

Kirby Smart Says Big Ten Is 'More Competitive' Than SEC

Smart argues parity from NIL has opened the door for the Big Ten.

Apr 18, 2026; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs head coach Kirby Smart shown on the field during the Georgia Spring football game at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Georgia coach Kirby Smart, speaking Thursday on The Next Round in Alabama, said the Big Ten is the more competitive league at the top.
  • He said name, image and likeness deals have spread talent beyond the SEC as more schools now have the money to lure elite recruits.
  • Smart also questioned whether the Big Ten currently has better coaches and suggested the SEC’s weekly grind may wear teams down by playoff time.
  • The Big Ten’s streak features titles by Michigan in 2023, Ohio State in 2024 and a rapid Indiana rise last season, with expansion to 18 teams widening the pool of contenders.
  • Draft trends reflect the shift, with the Big Ten leading Day 1 picks for the first time since 2015 while the SEC still set a record with 87 total selections this year.