Auburn Tigers’ Approach to the New SEC
With Texas and Oklahoma joining the SEC, the Auburn Tigers have a chance to grow their brand.
Ten clubs from the Southern Conference left to form the Southeastern Conference on December 8 and 9, 1932. The Auburn Tigers are SEC heavyweights, as are their whole athletic department, supporters, and former players. However, they are not as well-known in 2024 as Georgia or Alabama are.
The addition of Texas and Oklahoma to the SEC has altered Auburn’s standing in the organisation. However, that need not always be a bad thing. The Big 12’s arrivals should actually inspire the Tigers’ athletes, particularly in football.
Like the old days of college football, cash reigns in the modern version. But these days, we witness players being paid in a more respectable and transparent way. Recruits no longer shake hands for hundred dollars; instead, they just log on to their bank account and handle their money.
Schools now hire NIL specialists. Consequently, the pursuit of financial gain gains even greater significance. Simultaneously, it is hoped that the new regulations will result in fewer violations. Auburn will have to compete financially with the other SEC clubs, who are supported by affluent individuals.
Contrary to popular belief, universities such as Ole Miss have substantial financial power, which they utilised to both entice and prolong Lane Kiffin’s contract. The money around Auburn needs to open their chequebook regularly and early in order to stay up with the times. It’s true that not everyone will agree with this recently revealed approach. Nonetheless, the donor base needs to keep giving in order to win games.
To play a conference opponent, the Tigers will have to go further west as Texas and Oklahoma have joined the SEC. Some believe that the two new teams will pose serious obstacles as a result.