Since the dawn of time, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) has been recognized as elite. The conference's motto, "It Just Means More," reflects this truth. Greg Sankey, the SEC commissioner, has been voted the most powerful figure in college football as the sport approaches the 2025 season.
In college football, Greg Sankey is akin to Jerry Jones in the NFL. When he speaks, he ignites discussions and commands attention.
Since its founding in 1933, the SEC has built a legacy of athletic excellence, passionate fan bases, and championship success, with the motto "It Just Means More" symbolizing the region's deep-rooted connection to college football culture. The campaign, launched in 2016, was crafted to highlight not just the competitive edge but also the communal and emotional weight SEC football carries throughout the South.
Greg Sankey shines as the most powerful person in College Football.
A panel of USA TODAY Sports experts—ranging from national analysts to experienced beat reporters—spent hours debating and finalizing the top 25 most powerful people in college football for the upcoming season. They blended perspectives on coaching, administration, and broadcast influence. The list includes conference commissioners, media executives, top coaches like Deion Sanders and Nick Saban, and influential university presidents.
USA Today Sports reasoning for why Sankey deserves the top spot? Sankey has built the sport well and earned the respect.
"Sankey blends the credibility he’s earned from a career working in college athletics with the respect he amassed from guiding college football throughout the pandemic season and the gravitas that accompanies leading a “Super Two” conference steeped with powerful brands to shape the sport in an unparalleled way."
Sankey began his career as director of intramural sports at Utica College before moving into athletic administration at Northwestern State University, where he also served as compliance director and men's golf coach. He then joined the Southland Conference, ascending to commissioner by age 31—a role he held for nearly seven years. In 2002, Sankey moved to the SEC, initially working on compliance issues and eventually rising to become Executive Associate Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer.
Sankey succeeded Mike Slive as the SEC's eighth commissioner in 2015, having previously spent 13 years in various SEC roles. His tenure has been marked by major decisions, including the addition of Texas and Oklahoma to the SEC—further expanding the conference’s footprint and influence. Sankey is widely respected for his calm demeanor, strategic vision, and thorough preparation, with peers regularly noting his intellect and leadership.
Nonetheless, if there is anyone in college sports who is as elaborate, insightful, and most importantly, powerful, it's Greg Sankey.
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