The argument between the SEC and Big Ten over which college football conference is the strongest has loudened in the final month before the 2026 season. Cignetti's defense of the league during Big Ten media days included a line about its humility in defeat compared to the SEC. The comments from Cignetti have sparked additional discourse from others around the college football world, like former LSU and NFL safety Ryan Clark. During a recent edition of "The Pivot" podcast, Clark cited a change across college football that the Big Ten has adapted to more quickly than the SEC. However, the financial feasibility of Cignetti's roster construction is unattainable for most programs across the college football landscape.