I figured this would be best in its own thread rather than be added to the current "New Realignment" or "Future of Rice Athletics" threads. (Although many of our comments will surely be with Rice in mind.)
https://www.espn.com/college-football/st...rs-respond
During the off-season, ESPN surveyed more than 200 coaches, players and administrators with a wide-ranging questionnaire on the future of college football.
"... ®espondents told ESPN that big issues such as realignment, name, image and likeness and the transfer portal are likely just precursors to more seismic shifts in the sport's landscape.
"Among the significant changes expected in the coming years are a diminished role for the NCAA, an expansion of the College Football Playoff, continued realignment and, ultimately, a pay-for-play model that would treat players as employees.
"Nearly 80% of respondents believe schools will pay athletes directly within the next decade. Nearly 75% think the sport will eventually follow some sort of professional model, perhaps with schools forming conferences based on their willingness to pay players. And virtually everyone (98%) thinks more realignment is in store -- sooner than later."
The article is wide-ranging and quote-worthy.
Read it & weep, rejoice, discuss ...