SEC commissioner Greg Sankey dismissed claims that the conference is eyeing a merger with the Big Ten, labeling the super‑league narrative as “not consistent with the truth.” Speaking on ESPN’s "The Paul Finebaum Show," Sankey explained the SEC opposes the bipartisan Bill that would regulate college sports’ new multimillion‑dollar payroll era. He said the league had "about one dozen big buckets" of issues to review.

The bill’s first section lists twelve major categories for analysis, but skips the revised 1961 broadcasting law that would let conferences voluntarily pool media rights. The SEC and Big Ten reject that clause, arguing it could distort revenue sharing. Sankey urged lawmakers to consider voluntary participation before rushing to support the draft. Sankey also highlighted the need for clear guidelines on revenue distribution.

Senator Ted Cruz, a bill sponsor, has claimed the legislation would block a Big Ten‑SEC super‑league, a claim Sankey refuted. Meanwhile, Notre Dame’s athletic director warned a 30‑team league would resemble a mini‑NFL, harming college football’s identity. As the debate heats, the SEC remains cautious, insisting any media‑pooling changes must be voluntary and transparent.