The ancient rivals’ haggling over future matchups, and the eventual decision to cancel the 2026 game, forced the Trojans to find a 12th opponent. That, in turn, prompted a delay in the Big Ten’s schedule rollout by more than a month, to Tuesday — well after the SEC schedule was revealed in early December.

Manning looked sharp in a November win against Vanderbilt and again in the bowl win against Michigan. That’s a good sign. Manning and coach Steve Sarkisian must continue to embrace that Manning’s speed and agility rank among his top qualities. He’s a true dual threat, and he must be used accordingly.

Picture the scene in “Shawshank Redemption” when Morgan Freeman’s character goes in front of the parole board, expecting to be rejected once again. He comments on the mockery of the proceeding and says bluntly, “You go on and stamp your forms ...

Alabama's 2026 schedule features nine SEC games, as well as one of the toughest four-game stretches in college football next season.

A major college football program has been projected to win the SEC in 2026.