SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey clarified that the conference's focus is on improving the current system, rather than breaking away from the NCAA. While discussions about self-governance and conference-only games have occurred due to widespread frustrations in college athletics, Sankey emphasized that these are not new conversations and do not represent a "breakaway." He highlighted the importance of NCAA-run championships, such as March Madness, and the need to consider smaller conferences and HBCUs.

Sankey acknowledged that frustration exists, leading to talks about self-governance, particularly if federal legislation to standardize rules does not materialize. He cited NCAA eligibility rule enforcement challenges as an example of issues prompting discussions about more specific conference rules. The SEC is awaiting potential federal legislation and will decide its position based on the reviewed proposals, aiming for "common sense improvements."