The SEC keeps finding new reasons to not add a ninth conference game to its football schedule.

Throughout the four-team College Football Playoff era, the SEC ruled that postseason format, so it found insufficient incentive to add another conference game.

When the scheduling debate resurfaced two years ago, some SEC members expressed reluctance to add another conference game without additional compensation from its media partner. ESPN didn’t sweeten the pot. The SEC stayed at eight.

The latest excuse? Many SEC coaches feel loath to welcome a ninth conference game without first knowing the College Football Playoff format for 2026 and beyond.

What’s next, no ninth SEC game until there’s peace in the Middle East? Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

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