The portal combined with NIL is pouring gasoline onto an NCAA house already on fire. I don't think anyone knows where college football is headed, and we probably won't know for a few years. It reminds me of what Neo (marketable athletes) said before he hung up the phone (with the NCAA) in The Matrix.
One thing does seem clear: above all else money talks. The kids want to get paid. And they're going to get paid.
What I feel good about is Texas' decision to move to the SEC. Kids want to get paid, and they want to win. There is going to be one conference with the most money and the best teams. And it fucking sucks for those of us who liked college football 20 years ago with conferences and some semblance of parity. But those days are gone. There will be one super league with the best teams, and as a result the most money. Texas is joining that league and adding to the prestige.
I'm glad to be along for the wild ride with you surly assholes.