College Football will yet undergo some changes. These may are may not have the same impact that the realignment craze of 10 years ago had, but they will be significant. Here are some things that I see happening.
NFL Minor League and Farm System--Most other sports offer an alternative to college for entry at the top professional level, the NFL still does not. The NBA will soon have a stronger G-League and there will be a real alternative path to the NBA, the NFL will only remain a hold out for so long. The main barrier is the expense of such a system. But there is a lot of talent that can't get to the NFL because so many kids can't make it in college. Gradually, the NFL will implement a farm program and kids who want to play in the NFL will have another path to get there.
The difference between the top college programs and the bottom college programs will begin to disappear. Eventually, the youth of America will realize that being a starting quarterback anywhere is better than being a 3rd string quarterback at Alabama. Kids who can't play will transfer. Kids who don't believe that they will play will never sign.
The money will even out. ESPN and other top sports outlets are not seeing the viewership that they used to. Network and cable TV are gradually being replaced with streaming. If you are a fan of McNeese State living in Seattle, you will be able to see your Cowboys play live. Those options are not available today, but they soon will be. This will take away the financial advantage that the Power 5 conferences have. This may not completely happen by 2030, but it will be well underway.
Youth academies are springing up all over the United States for Soccer. Other sports will soon follow the model. Eventually, it will catch on with football. The consequences of this will be the most reaching of all changes. This will allow high schools to spend less on sports and in some cities, many high schools will not have sports programs at all. The academy kids will become the most sought after college recruits.
As there are more options for us to do with our time, there will be fewer attending games in person. College stadiums will be smaller, but offer more amenities and focus on improving the student, booster and general fan experience.
Finally, there will be rule changes for the safety of the athletes. This could include the elimination of kickoffs, punts and the 3-point stance, which are known to increase the likelihood of concussion. There will also be improved equipment. Injuries will always be a part of the sport. However, many steps will be taken to make the game safer.
These are some of the changes I have been reading about from other sources. What are some changes you see coming?
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