College football is big business with big money at stake. With the introduction of paying players for NIL (name, image and likeness) allowing athletes to profit off themselves, college football is sure to get bigger. Here are my thoughts as I read that Jim Harbaugh is leaving Michigan (2024 national championship) on top and heading to the pros to coach the LA Chargers.
First, loyalty is probably forever gone. The recent changes in head coaching positions has led me to believe that a coach can have a great job and winning record and still leave for a better job. The head coach of Washington took Nick Saban’s position at Alabama when he retired. The guy at Washington had just played for a national championship in his first year as their head coach.
Second, I’ve noticed that when a coach departs, big name players will enter the transfer portal and look for greener pastures (more money included).
Third, players, rightfully so, are looking at how they can better position themselves after college. If you’re a big name quarterback, would you rather play at Alabama or a lesser known school? Those who follow college football know the answer.
Lastly, I’m all for players getting their due, but it seems we went from one extreme to another. Maybe limit how many times a player can transfer. Maybe put in a salary cap. In the end, if it’s all just about money, the game will continue to change from what it is now to something very different.