August 28, 2025 • 29 mins
On this episode, Sam is joined by Southland Conference Commissioner Chris Grant. The two discuss:
-Nicholls’ upset over No. 5 UIW on ESPN2
-Southland’s rise
-UTRGV’s potential
-New media deal
-Moving to a 9-game conference schedule
-FCS championship moving to Nashville
-Conference realignment
-New D1 governance
-And more
-Nicholls’ upset over No. 5 UIW on ESPN2
-Southland’s rise
-UTRGV’s potential
-New media deal
-Moving to a 9-game conference schedule
-FCS championship moving to Nashville
-Conference realignment
-New D1 governance
-And more
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:16):
All right, welcome to you another episode of the FCS
Football Talk podcast. We have a guest interview here today
as we welcome on Southland Conference Commissioner Chris Grant, Commissioner.
Happy football season. I know you guys are from the
South and conference. You guys are weak in to your
football season. But how's everything going to the start of
the academic year and athletic here as a whole?
Speaker 2 (00:36):
No, I mean a phenomenal start.
Speaker 3 (00:37):
You mentioned it, right, We started a week earlier in
the normal and playing week zero had a phenomenal display
our level of football, right for you know, not only
just for the South one, but for FCS. It was
an amazing Saturday to see so many brands across the
FCS being able to showcase our talentent so across the ESPN,
you know, platform and networks, and you know, couldn't be
more thrilled to be a part of that room. But
(00:59):
you know, more importantly for the South Wind, I mean,
it's truly was seeing our two you know, basically those
two teams Nickel State and ui W and Carna were
they've won seven of our last championships, right, you throw
Southeastern in there. A couple of years because they're definitely
thriving and but it's just it's phenomenal showcase and Nickel
State prevailed, but it says the tone for you know,
(01:20):
the unknowns of the season. I don't think everybody for
saw what was happening, but right, Becky getting his first
ever win. You know, the city of Thibodeaux and their
athletic director John Victim and President Kloon put on a
great atmosphere.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
Right. It's tough playing at noon.
Speaker 3 (01:33):
In the south as you can probably know and imagine,
it's not something that we would aim to do weekly,
but for that television exposure opportunity, you know, they didn't
waiver and put a crowd there and the community came
out and support it.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
So it was really cool moment.
Speaker 1 (01:48):
Yeah, especially with you know the ESPN two cameras there.
You know, you got some aritime as well. But this was,
you know, the the second college football game you know
all of the year. You guys kicked off shortly after
Case State Iowa State. So how how I know you
you just kind of touched on that. But how big
was that for you know, the Southland to get that
showcase nationally?
Speaker 3 (02:07):
No, No, it was huge because you know, gave's opportunity.
I'm gonna correct you. We were the first on American
soil yet there you to go on television and so
you know, so it was awesome.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
This just the setup in a magnitude we released.
Speaker 3 (02:21):
And you know, we just had an announcement with our
partner and instant replay and video, right, and so you
know we're watching watching that. Make sure our officials are
in tune, right, I mean fans first time coming out
and heat overcoming that and our student athletes, right, they
really stepped up and showed. Now, right, it was a
defensive battle, and I think that's not talked about enough
because the defense on both sides. Of course, everyone's expecting
(02:43):
the incard a word, you know, high power offense, what
that will look like.
Speaker 2 (02:46):
But I think you can't take away from right, Becken
where they schemed.
Speaker 3 (02:49):
Them defensively, and heck, ui w played a crazy defensive
game too, because Nicholas has a great quarterback and do
some what he's able to do.
Speaker 2 (02:56):
But they held him.
Speaker 3 (02:57):
You know, you know, probably I imagine it was see
a lot more production come from his arm and what
he's able to do in the future. But you know,
I think the UIW. You know, they ran into a
buzshaw of that defense and game plan. But you know,
for us to be able to put all that on
display first weekend, have everyone talking about it as a
first game in collegiate athletics, and I just thought it
was a first class production by ESPN two. Right, And
(03:19):
you know, and more importantly, just the representation that we
have from that community. And you know that's coming right
off of our big announcement. But what we've been able
to do and negotiate along with Octagon in regards to
our television deal, right, that's a pretty big deal for
SCS conference, especially of us. We haven't had many linear
opportunities historically, and the ones we have more on the
(03:40):
basketball side, so be able to carve out you know,
you know, our FCS space and get football on you know,
fifty percent of at least three times here including this
year to start week zero. All plus you know, if
we ever were to bring a football championship game to
the market, you know, have that kind of ironed out
and an agreement too. But you know, in the exposure to
bring on for basketball, how strong we are there. But
(04:01):
you know, I'm I'm a true believer that it's a
trickle down effect, right, we had excelled in one sport
or another. Everyone benefits through the eco you know, ecosystem,
especially for the Southland, and so thrilled about where that's
taken us and where we're going. And and now this
week UTR GV, you know, only Division one brand new.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
I think it's prea for the first time.
Speaker 3 (04:20):
Since what Houston Christian maybe I think the last time
I read at least for our conference, and so really
big on that and what everyone bring to the table
expecting you know, if anyone's seen their baseball crowds, they're
putting sixty five hundred in the seats for baseball, and
so I can't imagine what football is going to bring.
I know if they'll sold out, it's all standing room only.
So looking forward to getting down to the Valley on Saturday,
and then later today I'll be down in Northwestern State.
(04:43):
They opened up with Alcorn State at home on Thursday.
We have Steeping Up also competing today and Houston Christian
competing today. So it's it's been a heck of a week,
you know, especially to start out. It's really excited to
where we see our brit League going a lot more
parody throughout and you know our school was really investing
into their head coaches staffs a little the y.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
Yeah, how do you view that Nichols win from a
conference perspective? Because on one hand, you can, you know,
look at it as you know, UIW is getting a
lot of preseason hype. They they fall to oh and
one right away, maybe that sets them back. But also
this Bolt's nickels up obviously. You know in the rankings
you have SFA who's getting preseason top twenty five. Love
I think Southeastern Louisiana is right on that cuspo of
(05:23):
getting in the top twenty five as well. So you know,
I know, at the end of the day, like from
a conference officer, you guys don't care where the standings are,
like whoever finished second office at the top. But how
do you view this? This huge upsets you know, unranked
being to the number five team in conference play. You know,
how do you view this as far as from from
an overall self in perspective?
Speaker 3 (05:43):
Yeah, you said as commissioner, right, you have you know
yet ten kids when it comes to football, right across
a all membership, you try to treat them all equally.
But you know, you'd be lying if you didn't say
you had a key and eye and interest and seeing
with some of your brands that are ranked right going
into where they end up.
Speaker 2 (05:59):
But I think you know you hit the vest.
Speaker 3 (06:01):
It truly speaks to the parody of the league in
the investment across the board.
Speaker 2 (06:05):
Right, Rebeccy, he takes over.
Speaker 3 (06:07):
He's been the mastermind of that defense for the last
decade under Tim Ribo. They're another legend at Nichols, and
they had a blip on the radar last year. Right,
they have you know, four like I think I know
they have four superstars in our own right. Fcs ended
up sitting out after those first four games, and that
kind of really derailed with their time to accomplience over
a season. And that's just the reality now of the
(06:28):
transfer portal and injuries things of that nature, you know,
and the kids start thinking about it from business wise,
and so.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
That's a whole nother topic.
Speaker 3 (06:35):
But for us, I mean, yes, Nichols getting that win
shows the death of our league. That hey, a champion
from previous years, they would have bounce right back.
Speaker 2 (06:44):
You know.
Speaker 3 (06:44):
They went out and got an offensive coordinator from Florida
State and so you know they're gonna be a totally
different teams. Definitely some great power forward simeees that they
have last minute from a defensive line standpoint, and the quarterback.
But from you know the rest of the league, I
mean incarnate word. They still have you know, our former
player of the Year and running back. They have a
better offensive line. They lost some key pieces right before
(07:05):
the spring. But you know, I'm never counting Clint out
and what he's able to do with that program, especially
with him calling plays now this year, that's something new.
But you know, so you got those two, but then
we're not talking about Stephen F. Austin, who's returning a
heck of a offense right and arguably one of our
top quarterbacks in the league. Did in Sam and looking
at Lamar right and Pete and what he's been able
(07:27):
to do and build that program the right way and
being one of our brands that look out for McNeice
having a legend return and coach via tour and I
think a lot of the unknowns and so you know,
looking forward to that. Of course, Southeastern, as you mentioned,
they were right on the custo last year. Again, Ritill,
I hate looking in the past, but I really wanted
them in. I think that'll be a chip on their
shoulder to go forward with it and what they're able
(07:48):
to do. And look, I'm always looking out for those
sambagers And I tell you know in UTRGV. You though
it's the first year, I don't expect that they planned
the whole year and say, hey, we're just gonna get
through the season.
Speaker 2 (07:58):
I know they're coming in and compete.
Speaker 3 (07:59):
And that's what all of our brands, you know at
pork go down in Northwestern State, is everyone has something
to prove this year. They understand. Look my directive and
my thoughts and how how you know, really bragging how
much I bragg on our league that I expect us
to be, you know, and you know it's lofty, but
big Scots there's a Valley Football Conference.
Speaker 2 (08:18):
Because I know our investment and I know our talent pool.
Speaker 3 (08:21):
From this region right that there's no reason we shouldn't
definitely be maintaining. If we're not at two, we definitely
be a three each year. And I want to keep
pushing that and then then hopefully get us back, you know,
to where we saw my first year, and we're seeing
where UI w is taking us to the semi finals.
And again you know in Southeastern went into the postseason,
won a game over you know, at their place against Idaho,
(08:42):
and so you know, you look at all that and
you want that success to get back to the SOUTHWD
way of Hey, you know, Sam Houston State champion. That's
for so long that now we're just you know, coming
to new brands. You finally someone's been detrimental by me too. Right,
Realignment has a new schedule every year, how you're planning things,
and and so I thank them during our media day
coaches meeting. I appreciate their patience with us as we
(09:04):
rebuilt this league, but now being out of full ten
and truly understanding where our depth's going on. And you
know East Texas A and M their first year Division one.
Excited for them what they're building on, and honestly, the
talent pool they have here in Dallas. For so many transfers,
I want to come back home and play in front
of their families, and you can do that in our league.
So I think our coaches are really kind of just
really getting into it. I'm just I'm through to our
(09:26):
athletic directors and our presidents truly focusing on Hey, football
is a priority for the Southland Conference. We want to
be great and you know, doing whatever they can within
their right to be was competitive and nil.
Speaker 2 (09:37):
Again, more facility upgrades.
Speaker 3 (09:38):
We've seen that across the league happening on the football
side and it's providing a better fan experience. We truly
want to field stadiums and you know, I keep throwing
it out there, but Missouri Valley Football Conference and a
big sky we're chasing them right the Montana's and Northcota States,
South Dakota States and me having a chance to witness
that this year along with James going up to South
(09:58):
Dakota State, that atmosphere and it was like, honestly, it
felt like negative eight degree weather and to see the
crowd in their hot top and and they're still going
crazy as they're throwing bombs. Like, I don't want that
feeling at the end of the game of the year again,
but I do want to see that crowd actually here
in the South lond.
Speaker 1 (10:14):
Yeah, you mentioned UTRGV a couple of times and they
recently joined the Southland and now you know the football team,
you know, launching you know, brand new football program, and
I had their head coach on the podcast earlier in
the offseason, and you know, really eye opening about the
potential of this program from from you know, talking about
(10:35):
a football standpoint here with you know, they showed some
pictures of the facilities that they just opened up. You know,
the stadium, you know, sold out season tickets, all the
sweet sales, all the sweets are sold out as well.
Then just their location, you know, obviously being in Texas,
but they don't have a division another division on football team.
I think it's like a three and a half hour
radius and that's you know, I mean that's something that
(10:57):
that Dakotas in Idaho like they benefit from not having
to compete with you know, fan support and corporate sponsors
and those sort of things. So that's also going you
know in the favor of UTR GV and then you
know in a huge metro area as well. So speak
to them a little bit and just the potential you
see in that football program.
Speaker 3 (11:15):
Yeah, I mean when President Bailey and Chase come when
we first met and we were talking first really talking
realignment and them and the opportunity.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
I mean, we were really focused on football, right.
Speaker 3 (11:24):
They wanted to make sure they had league alignment to
bring their program in and get it off to a
great start, and that regionality really spoke to them. And
so at the time, again when you see plans and renderings,
you kind of get an ideal of with us. And again,
but you're setting expectations. I tell you, they exceeded all
of my expectations thus far without even kicking off just yet.
And we disregard me. You talked about their facilities, right
(11:46):
and knowing to planning and you know kind of the
detail that went into that from from Chase's standpoint as
an athletic director, but seeing that it's not only just
the athletic department being bought in its university alignment, right
and all they do and they are the same page.
And then you take that out to the community and
you mentioned it best. Yes, they have an opportunity there
being near no other Division I programs to really capture
(12:08):
a market that's been untapped. And I mean they're just
chomping at the bit. I mean, we were doing interviews
a year ago talking about football. We're talking basketball season,
and all they want to talk about was football, And
so that really got me excited and understanding. Of course,
coach Bush, you know, being a former Southland guy as
a student athlete and coach, and you know, coming up
in this league, he knew all the history and know
(12:30):
what this league's about, and this building up the right way,
like focused on the high school students last year and
getting over one hundred recruits to campus and it's a
couple of transfers, and then complimenting that this year has
been really intentional from their standpoint, and what they're doing
in our league is not just me being excited. The
rest of the coaches in the room were really excited
about it. And then bringing us to ten. It was
like perfect timing, right as we talk about going into
(12:52):
playing a nine game conference schedule in the future and
then having a true champion so that you're not missing
any opponents. And so I think a lot of you're
looking forward to getting down there, and I think at
the same time, I think they'll have a great travel party,
just because again it's so regional.
Speaker 2 (13:06):
They have three different airports.
Speaker 3 (13:07):
Down there you getting in and out of, but they're
still not that far away unless they're coming all the
way over to the Louisianas from getting in and put
filling up that gas team to come and watch the games.
So that's really going to increase our visual presence, you know,
whether it be on ESPN Plus or linear.
Speaker 2 (13:21):
And I think for their institution, it's only going to
grow more.
Speaker 3 (13:24):
Man, they already have over thirty thousand students, so you
add that on to especially with the access to the
amount of people that come across the border daily just
re work and things of that nature. And there's those
three communities getting together. I'm truly excited. I hot if
you hear my voice, but I'm pumped up to get
down there. At the same point in time, this is
like kind of anti right, My anxiety levels are going
(13:45):
in because something that we talked about for so long
so to see if to come in fruition. There's really
pumped for them and what it will bring. And I
know it would be a lot of tears shed that day.
But at the same point in time, a lot of excitement.
And I'm really excited about the food. Right, that's a
whole nother introduction and what's going to happen to our league. Right,
We've been so Occajun focused and a little text mex
I think you're gonna get a true Mexican a Bill
down there and see what that game that He's.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Like, yeah, you just mentioned you know, you guys moving
to nine games, nine conference games with now the FCS,
you know, fully moving into twelve game regular season starting
next year, the Big Skuys also moving to a nine
game conference schedule. I think the Silicon will likely moved
to a nine game conference schedule as well with the
with the Tennessee Tech addition. But you guys were first.
(14:30):
I mean, you guys set the table for the for
the SEC, right, you guys beat them. He beat them
to the punts for the nine game conference schedule. But
what what played in that decision of moving to nine
conference games?
Speaker 2 (14:40):
You know? Yeah, I'll kind of alluded to.
Speaker 3 (14:42):
It's like we want a more regional division one games, right,
and the FCS we wanted to determine a true champion
and going through that and so playing a full conference
slate is awesome. And then it's been harder and harder
to really sustain budgets and focused on nil revenue share
along the way, so more regional, we can stay in
our games and what and not get on too many planes.
(15:05):
If we had a good relationship with the Big Sky
and some of our non conference I don't expect that
the waiver.
Speaker 2 (15:09):
I expect them to still go continue to play those games.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
Same thing, which is so cond I think you'll see
a little more with us with the United Athletic Conference
too in some of my conversations, and there's been a
good partnership, and of course the OVC is still hanging.
Speaker 2 (15:21):
In and consider that all part of our area.
Speaker 3 (15:24):
And I mean, I don't know if you saw that
UIW actually signed a home and home with North Dakota
State coming there for the future.
Speaker 2 (15:30):
So you know, although it is not going to take
away from our non conference opportunities.
Speaker 3 (15:33):
So once we realize that that those opportunities still exist
and that you know, we're looking at you know, kind
of open lens that's trying to see through the forest
of what will happen at the FBS level, and as
they continue to prioritize playing and then you've see that
with the SEC release that it's our requirement right that
they play a compelling power core opponent, you know, going
forward to add that too, it so schedule is getting
(15:53):
a little tougher. We might not have those same guarantee opportunities,
but that also you know, by going to nine games
helped insulate us a little war, protect us that our
coaches won't be out, you know, they're trying to find
a game and it's playing these you know, obscure regions
in hopes of that. But at the same point in time,
I think it's a commitment across FCS from all our
commissioners that we want to continue going our brand.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Right.
Speaker 3 (16:14):
We wet so many opportunities for student athletes to thrive
and that we don't want to take away chasing the
dream of following everyday FBS is doing and kind of
stand alone and what we're able to do, which is
why that week zero came about in our legislation, and
so I'm going to continue pushing that envelope as more
conferences go to nine games. We're still focusing on those
three opportunities and maybe more so too, because you probably
(16:36):
make it one guarantee game for everyone that we're focusing
on playing outside of our conference to get that litmus
test on where we stack up nationally, right, because we
want to give the committee the best, you know, metrics
that they can you know, can have, and I think
you know, we've been challenging them on consistency and what
they're looking at, and a lot of it being the
eye tests, but also in the metrics and head to
heads and comparative schedules that you know, we do have
(16:58):
enough of a non conference to continue competing. So I
just appreciate our coaches and at first they was like, ah,
we're not sure about this this yet, and then we
started just talking about it, talking more through coming together
and say, hey, you know, it really is important.
Speaker 2 (17:11):
That each brand because if you miss someone and you
hopefully it's not a rival.
Speaker 3 (17:14):
So we tried a new scheduling formula that you know
you're almost scheduling in pods and then you know you're
missing someone every other year and when we initially start
looking at it, so now knowing we'll have a full
slate and that won't happen anymore. I think my first year,
I got ridiculed for missing out in the McNeice Northwestern
State game and I never won that again.
Speaker 2 (17:32):
But you look at.
Speaker 3 (17:33):
Northwestern State and McNeese, they all they both have like
four roundals in the league, and so when you missed
the games, so we won't have that our fans to
get a full slate South on football, and that's just
important and we continue to push our brand forward.
Speaker 1 (17:45):
The FCS Championship game heading to Nashville after fifteen years,
I believe in Frisco. I know, the Southland Conference had
you know, played a big part in just you know,
operationally around the FCS Championship and now the OVS will
be taking on those responsibilities. I know that it is
going to be in Nashville at least for the next
two years. So it just your over our thoughts on
(18:07):
the Championship game moving, you know, maybe a little bitter sweet,
you know, something new, but at the same time, like
you know, it's kind of not you know within the
South and now as far as you know, helping out
with that game, right.
Speaker 3 (18:18):
No, I mean you talk about game has been you
know with US World, but fourteen fifteen years right with
our conference and you know get my predecessor to Tom
Burnett having that vision.
Speaker 2 (18:27):
With the city of Frisco and what are you evolved
to it.
Speaker 3 (18:29):
I mean you've seen I mean way North Dakota State
as they were taking over and outline I was volunteering
on that game back in twenty ten and eleven and
seeing this and so with that said, is you know
it does it will impact our community because it really
exposed said football at the top levels and having a
premier venue like FC Dallas. But you know, look all
good things they needed to improve the venue and from
(18:51):
their standpoint from a fan experience, I imagine MESSI had
a lot to do with that.
Speaker 2 (18:55):
And in MLS soccer, right, they adding more fans.
Speaker 3 (18:59):
But you know, when that comes back online, it will
be one of deep permiere MLS facility and so to speak,
and provide another opportunity hopefully to return.
Speaker 2 (19:08):
But you know, at the same point in time, I'm
thrilled about Nashville.
Speaker 3 (19:11):
I think being essentially located a little more, a little
bit more accessible, with larger airport for everyone, and just
that entertainment that's built in around it, right and the
things that they're already you know, starting to look at.
And I like to think Crisco and our staff at
the South lond Conference all played a hand in that,
because you know, we continue to build every year on
everything in surrounded the game, from fan experience, student athlete experience,
(19:33):
and this overall, you know, how do we can put
the best product on national television and now Nashville taking
it to the up team. Now, you know, going over
to Vanderbilt Stadium. I know Candice Lead what's they're done
with their renovation. I was watching a little bit of
the SEC that their deal on Netflix. It looks pretty
cool how that's coming along, and so excited to see
them fill it up and kind of set the table
for us. But hopefully a Southland team and whoever else
(19:55):
right that makes it there. And look, if I'm fortunate
enough to be blessed to have two South Hind teams,
not argue that, but maybe taking it on our own hands,
we'll see some more success happening from the South one
conference we have. Our last one was what that COVID
year with Sam Houston State, and so we'd love to
see one of our schools playing back in that without
us stressing over hosting it anymore and put that stress
on the OBC conference with that and Beth and her
(20:18):
crew there, but she's really been down in and really
taking a lot of feedback, and I think one thing
you're going to see that's better is that we're truly
making this an experience for all conferences and administrators too.
That's where it starts, right and bting it out, maybe
you know, doing a symposium of some sorts for fcs,
you know, bringing in some key speakers, you'll see some
sponsored parties that you tipical see at the NCAA Final
(20:38):
four or CP event, and so just really thrilled from
it all coming together, and ty Halpan has done a
great job of leading that charge too. So we just
want to be supporters and championing and imagine our crew
like James and Andrew b.
Speaker 2 (20:51):
Shack and a few others on our staff will still
be involved.
Speaker 3 (20:54):
Bruce Ludlow, who's another one who's been working the game
and so looking forward to see what's going to happen
with it and doing our part they can, ensuring that
they won't drop off at all.
Speaker 1 (21:03):
Yeah, the Souffland for you know a few years ago
was it's put on the defensive a little bit when
it came to realignment. But now you guys are in
a position of strength, our strength right with you know,
ten football members, twelve full time members. Is are you
guys good with where you're at? Or is realignment always
kind of a discussion as far as you know, expansion
(21:23):
targets or where things at with those type of conversations.
Speaker 3 (21:26):
Yeah, you know, it's funny you say that it's coming
into this year like stabilities everything right, and we finally
have that. We're singing from the same hymnal, you know,
all twelve members you know, even or not football play
members fcs. But at the same point in time, it's
like it's my job to always kind of again look
through the four see what's out there and other opportunities
or anything else that will help, you know, really improve.
Speaker 2 (21:47):
Our brand as a conference.
Speaker 3 (21:48):
Right, we don't want to add this to add, but
now we're getting into you know, figure out what's that
criteria for our next number. And obviously it's moratorium in
place for those you know, transitioning members and looking there.
But we also you know, look the ever changing world
of vision one in college athletics right now as is
you know, a different division ie governor structure. Now what
does that look like from for an FBS standpoint, and
(22:11):
opportunities there too.
Speaker 2 (22:12):
So you know, we're not being asked. I'm not out.
You know, I don't have to beat the pavement anymore.
I'm glad I can take calls now as opposed to always.
Speaker 3 (22:19):
But I'm always keeping the pulse of everything, and you know,
we want we want people that want to be a
part of the Southland and grow the band brand, right,
not folks to feel like they just either need to
drop down or they you know, we're the only option.
We don't want that because we're going in a totally
different direction.
Speaker 2 (22:32):
You know.
Speaker 3 (22:32):
It's not the same SOUTHLND conference that we had back
in twenty twenty one. You know, I like to think
we're more thriving brand. Of course, the rebrand and everything
that happened with that took us to that. But now
it's our new TV deal, we obviously have to be
you know, Cosmit saying that we're putting the best games
on and that is compelling content, right, and so we
want that and from a student athlete standpoint, ensuring.
Speaker 2 (22:52):
That we're providing and not getting away from that amateurism. Right.
I know it's changed.
Speaker 3 (22:56):
You can provide nil, but I like to think our
schools are doing it with the right reasons, whether it's
revenue share or nil. We're still graduating student athletes and
educated on what to do with that funding and that
they're receiving now and that revenue. But in the same time,
we're still folks on getting degrees in our hands, right,
And that's where the amateurism comes in and say, hey,
you're not coming to us because we have the biggest
bad you know, necessarily either student athletes. Reference Now you're
(23:18):
coming to us because you still want that student athlete experience.
We're gonna give you a platform either take it to
the next level. You know, you talk about the Jaylyx
Hunts and the cam Wards, right and if you come
here and you know with us as a youngster, you know,
as freshman or you're becoming a sophomore junior and use
our platform as a stepping stone to go play in
a power forward, we want that, right.
Speaker 2 (23:36):
We're going to celebrate that because you're leave it a
better than you founded.
Speaker 3 (23:39):
And now we'll have even more opportunities of people looking
at us, our student athletes and potential recruits to hey,
I can go play in the South and get to
a while. I want to go and accomplish through my
athletic talents. And so at the end of the day, yes,
right now, today we're good at twelve and we're going
to celebrate our twelve get back to doing our business
as a conference. We're starting to get schedules in place
and finally have those out for the next or five years,
(24:00):
and those are things people don't think about. The more
change we have, the less likely we are to schedule
those you know, high level, non non confidence matchups in
any sport, but mainly football. As you know, Sam, those
things are scheduled out. You know some now we've talking
about UIW North Dakota State. You know, they're looking at
twenty thirties now and what those matchups look like. So
I don't want to handcuff our athletic directors and football
(24:22):
administrators and coaches on seeking out you know what those are.
That I continue to challenge them to upgrade schedules and
you know, hopefully like last year is Southeastern, we started
having some success.
Speaker 2 (24:31):
When we do upgrade, probably won't go overloaded like they
did last year, right.
Speaker 3 (24:36):
Be wise about it and get rewarded for but looking
for those key opportunities and so. But yeah, so right now,
we just focused on growing and brand and doing things
the SOUTHWND way, and if opportunities present, the South will
be ready, I think, as we've proven in the past.
Speaker 1 (24:49):
Yeah, you keep on touching on my next question. So
you're making the transitions pretty easy. So I did want
to wrap up here by asking you about this new
governance structure. You know, some fans are curious about some
fans don't like the end of the weed stuff. But
with the power forward conferences kind of having weighted voting
power to push through certain things. As a mid major conference,
(25:09):
what are your thoughts on just this overall new governance
structure and how it impacts you and your fellow man
major conferences.
Speaker 3 (25:16):
Yeah, you know, I think initially Sam, it was tough
in the concept that we'd be losing representation on a
lot of these Division one committees that we participate on.
But at the same point in time, you know, when
I have folks like Greg Sanke, you know, you look
at Jim Phillips, you know, now Brett your Mark and
more of a business side of it, Antoni of it
in Big ten really, you know, prepping their conferences and
(25:37):
having the resources right that really gotten us where we are.
Speaker 2 (25:40):
Like, it's a lot of things that we have.
Speaker 3 (25:42):
As a Division one members, even as mid majors and
even fcs is because of what their brands and where
they forced forward and created a market.
Speaker 2 (25:49):
Well it'd be television sponsorships, so on and so forth.
Speaker 3 (25:53):
So I'm still in a belief that it can all
work out together as one one ecosystem.
Speaker 2 (25:57):
Communication has to.
Speaker 3 (25:58):
Be strong, and I think we're working on that in
a commissioner room and we're actually talking through it as
FCS commissioners what's best for FCS right now. It gives
us an opportunity were without trying to really create a separate,
totally separate subdivision, but to work together more collectively and
challenge us to be on the same page. And that
haven't been it since I come aboard. It hadn't been
there historically, But I'd like to say now we have
(26:19):
a much more collegial group, we understand what kind of
what our our goals are throughout and then understanding that
now even with fewer representation opportunities that whoever's serving and
those FCS capacity and they are more limited now because
like it's for instance, on a board of you know,
administration or the board of governors things, it'll rotate and
(26:41):
we'll only have one or two spots or two spots
every two years.
Speaker 2 (26:45):
To put a member on. Well, you have eleven.
Speaker 3 (26:47):
FCS conferences, so you know you got to go on
a rotation of some swords and figure that piece out.
Speaker 2 (26:52):
And I think we've done that collectively.
Speaker 3 (26:53):
But whoever's representing SCS in that capacity now is a
good steward of all our what all of our missions
are coming together, and you can't be selfish in that, right,
And I like think that's how the power core now
have gotten where they are, Like they basically at some
point got on the same page. Now they don't agree
on everything and you never will, but what are those
high level topics that we come together. So I'm thrilled
(27:14):
that you know those A four, you know they've really
set out a course. So really what's best for college athletics, right,
and let us forge it? And you know from our
standpoint that we were never trying to hold them back,
but we just want to be good partners, right and
all of this and so continue to celebrate them, continue
to play the games right. We want access to you know,
definitely our athletic our automatic qualifiers for NCAA tournaments. But
(27:35):
as we're talking about non conference scheduling, right, we never
want to be put out. We have a great thing
going in the South one with our Louisiana schools and LSU.
You see it a lot on the Texas side. We
have plenty to choose from and so we still want
those scheduling partnerships to happen as they you know, the
years go by. But more importantly, you know, looking for
fcs to really band together and continue to putting ourselves,
(27:55):
setting ourselves aside of a carving on our niche of
what it would be going forward for the future. That's
I think it would be a good thing for our
student athletes. Again, I didn't start off that way, right,
I'm very curious, very nervous, a lot of anxiety. But
as we continue to meet more as commissioners and understand, Hey,
the house settlement brought on a lot of change, right,
we have to adjust and you know, change brings about opportunities.
(28:15):
You know, have some challenges, but those challenges will turn
on opportunities and now it's a different way of doing
business and hopefully we be better off forward and provide
a better student athlete experience at the end.
Speaker 2 (28:24):
Of the day.
Speaker 1 (28:25):
Yeah, well this has been awesome. I appreciate your time,
especially you know we're in the thick of things now
as all the seasons kickoff. So thank you so much
commissioner for joining the podcast today.
Speaker 3 (28:36):
No, thank you, Sam. Hey, one time, We're good. You'll
get you to say there is a non conference season.
I'm gonna guarantee it. Someone's good to upset and we
want to see you flast that south Wind vers all
y'all at some point. All right, we've got to get
you a helmet back there too, but we make sure
we make that happen.
Speaker 1 (28:50):
Yeah, I got a mcnease one, but other than that lacking.
So yeah, I happy to increase the memorabilia back here
behind me, the PA
All right, welcome to you another episode of the FCS
Football Talk podcast. We have a guest interview here today
as we welcome on Southland Conference Commissioner Chris Grant, Commissioner.
Happy football season. I know you guys are from the
South and conference. You guys are weak in to your
football season. But how's everything going to the start of
the academic year and athletic here as a whole?
Speaker 2 (00:36):
No, I mean a phenomenal start.
Speaker 3 (00:37):
You mentioned it, right, We started a week earlier in
the normal and playing week zero had a phenomenal display
our level of football, right for you know, not only
just for the South one, but for FCS. It was
an amazing Saturday to see so many brands across the
FCS being able to showcase our talentent so across the ESPN,
you know, platform and networks, and you know, couldn't be
more thrilled to be a part of that room. But
(00:59):
you know, more importantly for the South Wind, I mean,
it's truly was seeing our two you know, basically those
two teams Nickel State and ui W and Carna were
they've won seven of our last championships, right, you throw
Southeastern in there. A couple of years because they're definitely
thriving and but it's just it's phenomenal showcase and Nickel
State prevailed, but it says the tone for you know,
(01:20):
the unknowns of the season. I don't think everybody for
saw what was happening, but right, Becky getting his first
ever win. You know, the city of Thibodeaux and their
athletic director John Victim and President Kloon put on a
great atmosphere.
Speaker 2 (01:32):
Right. It's tough playing at noon.
Speaker 3 (01:33):
In the south as you can probably know and imagine,
it's not something that we would aim to do weekly,
but for that television exposure opportunity, you know, they didn't
waiver and put a crowd there and the community came
out and support it.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
So it was really cool moment.
Speaker 1 (01:48):
Yeah, especially with you know the ESPN two cameras there.
You know, you got some aritime as well. But this was,
you know, the the second college football game you know
all of the year. You guys kicked off shortly after
Case State Iowa State. So how how I know you
you just kind of touched on that. But how big
was that for you know, the Southland to get that
showcase nationally?
Speaker 3 (02:07):
No, No, it was huge because you know, gave's opportunity.
I'm gonna correct you. We were the first on American
soil yet there you to go on television and so
you know, so it was awesome.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
This just the setup in a magnitude we released.
Speaker 3 (02:21):
And you know, we just had an announcement with our
partner and instant replay and video, right, and so you
know we're watching watching that. Make sure our officials are
in tune, right, I mean fans first time coming out
and heat overcoming that and our student athletes, right, they
really stepped up and showed. Now, right, it was a
defensive battle, and I think that's not talked about enough
because the defense on both sides. Of course, everyone's expecting
(02:43):
the incard a word, you know, high power offense, what
that will look like.
Speaker 2 (02:46):
But I think you can't take away from right, Becken
where they schemed.
Speaker 3 (02:49):
Them defensively, and heck, ui w played a crazy defensive
game too, because Nicholas has a great quarterback and do
some what he's able to do.
Speaker 2 (02:56):
But they held him.
Speaker 3 (02:57):
You know, you know, probably I imagine it was see
a lot more production come from his arm and what
he's able to do in the future. But you know,
I think the UIW. You know, they ran into a
buzshaw of that defense and game plan. But you know,
for us to be able to put all that on
display first weekend, have everyone talking about it as a
first game in collegiate athletics, and I just thought it
was a first class production by ESPN two. Right, And
(03:19):
you know, and more importantly, just the representation that we
have from that community. And you know that's coming right
off of our big announcement. But what we've been able
to do and negotiate along with Octagon in regards to
our television deal, right, that's a pretty big deal for
SCS conference, especially of us. We haven't had many linear
opportunities historically, and the ones we have more on the
(03:40):
basketball side, so be able to carve out you know,
you know, our FCS space and get football on you know,
fifty percent of at least three times here including this
year to start week zero. All plus you know, if
we ever were to bring a football championship game to
the market, you know, have that kind of ironed out
and an agreement too. But you know, in the exposure to
bring on for basketball, how strong we are there. But
(04:01):
you know, I'm I'm a true believer that it's a
trickle down effect, right, we had excelled in one sport
or another. Everyone benefits through the eco you know, ecosystem,
especially for the Southland, and so thrilled about where that's
taken us and where we're going. And and now this
week UTR GV, you know, only Division one brand new.
Speaker 2 (04:19):
I think it's prea for the first time.
Speaker 3 (04:20):
Since what Houston Christian maybe I think the last time
I read at least for our conference, and so really
big on that and what everyone bring to the table
expecting you know, if anyone's seen their baseball crowds, they're
putting sixty five hundred in the seats for baseball, and
so I can't imagine what football is going to bring.
I know if they'll sold out, it's all standing room only.
So looking forward to getting down to the Valley on Saturday,
and then later today I'll be down in Northwestern State.
(04:43):
They opened up with Alcorn State at home on Thursday.
We have Steeping Up also competing today and Houston Christian
competing today. So it's it's been a heck of a week,
you know, especially to start out. It's really excited to
where we see our brit League going a lot more
parody throughout and you know our school was really investing
into their head coaches staffs a little the y.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
Yeah, how do you view that Nichols win from a
conference perspective? Because on one hand, you can, you know,
look at it as you know, UIW is getting a
lot of preseason hype. They they fall to oh and
one right away, maybe that sets them back. But also
this Bolt's nickels up obviously. You know in the rankings
you have SFA who's getting preseason top twenty five. Love
I think Southeastern Louisiana is right on that cuspo of
(05:23):
getting in the top twenty five as well. So you know,
I know, at the end of the day, like from
a conference officer, you guys don't care where the standings are,
like whoever finished second office at the top. But how
do you view this? This huge upsets you know, unranked
being to the number five team in conference play. You know,
how do you view this as far as from from
an overall self in perspective?
Speaker 3 (05:43):
Yeah, you said as commissioner, right, you have you know
yet ten kids when it comes to football, right across
a all membership, you try to treat them all equally.
But you know, you'd be lying if you didn't say
you had a key and eye and interest and seeing
with some of your brands that are ranked right going
into where they end up.
Speaker 2 (05:59):
But I think you know you hit the vest.
Speaker 3 (06:01):
It truly speaks to the parody of the league in
the investment across the board.
Speaker 2 (06:05):
Right, Rebeccy, he takes over.
Speaker 3 (06:07):
He's been the mastermind of that defense for the last
decade under Tim Ribo. They're another legend at Nichols, and
they had a blip on the radar last year. Right,
they have you know, four like I think I know
they have four superstars in our own right. Fcs ended
up sitting out after those first four games, and that
kind of really derailed with their time to accomplience over
a season. And that's just the reality now of the
(06:28):
transfer portal and injuries things of that nature, you know,
and the kids start thinking about it from business wise,
and so.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
That's a whole nother topic.
Speaker 3 (06:35):
But for us, I mean, yes, Nichols getting that win
shows the death of our league. That hey, a champion
from previous years, they would have bounce right back.
Speaker 2 (06:44):
You know.
Speaker 3 (06:44):
They went out and got an offensive coordinator from Florida
State and so you know they're gonna be a totally
different teams. Definitely some great power forward simeees that they
have last minute from a defensive line standpoint, and the quarterback.
But from you know the rest of the league, I
mean incarnate word. They still have you know, our former
player of the Year and running back. They have a
better offensive line. They lost some key pieces right before
(07:05):
the spring. But you know, I'm never counting Clint out
and what he's able to do with that program, especially
with him calling plays now this year, that's something new.
But you know, so you got those two, but then
we're not talking about Stephen F. Austin, who's returning a
heck of a offense right and arguably one of our
top quarterbacks in the league. Did in Sam and looking
at Lamar right and Pete and what he's been able
(07:27):
to do and build that program the right way and
being one of our brands that look out for McNeice
having a legend return and coach via tour and I
think a lot of the unknowns and so you know,
looking forward to that. Of course, Southeastern, as you mentioned,
they were right on the custo last year. Again, Ritill,
I hate looking in the past, but I really wanted
them in. I think that'll be a chip on their
shoulder to go forward with it and what they're able
(07:48):
to do. And look, I'm always looking out for those
sambagers And I tell you know in UTRGV. You though
it's the first year, I don't expect that they planned
the whole year and say, hey, we're just gonna get
through the season.
Speaker 2 (07:58):
I know they're coming in and compete.
Speaker 3 (07:59):
And that's what all of our brands, you know at
pork go down in Northwestern State, is everyone has something
to prove this year. They understand. Look my directive and
my thoughts and how how you know, really bragging how
much I bragg on our league that I expect us
to be, you know, and you know it's lofty, but
big Scots there's a Valley Football Conference.
Speaker 2 (08:18):
Because I know our investment and I know our talent pool.
Speaker 3 (08:21):
From this region right that there's no reason we shouldn't
definitely be maintaining. If we're not at two, we definitely
be a three each year. And I want to keep
pushing that and then then hopefully get us back, you know,
to where we saw my first year, and we're seeing
where UI w is taking us to the semi finals.
And again you know in Southeastern went into the postseason,
won a game over you know, at their place against Idaho,
(08:42):
and so you know, you look at all that and
you want that success to get back to the SOUTHWD
way of Hey, you know, Sam Houston State champion. That's
for so long that now we're just you know, coming
to new brands. You finally someone's been detrimental by me too. Right,
Realignment has a new schedule every year, how you're planning things,
and and so I thank them during our media day
coaches meeting. I appreciate their patience with us as we
(09:04):
rebuilt this league, but now being out of full ten
and truly understanding where our depth's going on. And you
know East Texas A and M their first year Division one.
Excited for them what they're building on, and honestly, the
talent pool they have here in Dallas. For so many transfers,
I want to come back home and play in front
of their families, and you can do that in our league.
So I think our coaches are really kind of just
really getting into it. I'm just I'm through to our
(09:26):
athletic directors and our presidents truly focusing on Hey, football
is a priority for the Southland Conference. We want to
be great and you know, doing whatever they can within
their right to be was competitive and nil.
Speaker 2 (09:37):
Again, more facility upgrades.
Speaker 3 (09:38):
We've seen that across the league happening on the football
side and it's providing a better fan experience. We truly
want to field stadiums and you know, I keep throwing
it out there, but Missouri Valley Football Conference and a
big sky we're chasing them right the Montana's and Northcota States,
South Dakota States and me having a chance to witness
that this year along with James going up to South
(09:58):
Dakota State, that atmosphere and it was like, honestly, it
felt like negative eight degree weather and to see the
crowd in their hot top and and they're still going
crazy as they're throwing bombs. Like, I don't want that
feeling at the end of the game of the year again,
but I do want to see that crowd actually here
in the South lond.
Speaker 1 (10:14):
Yeah, you mentioned UTRGV a couple of times and they
recently joined the Southland and now you know the football team,
you know, launching you know, brand new football program, and
I had their head coach on the podcast earlier in
the offseason, and you know, really eye opening about the
potential of this program from from you know, talking about
(10:35):
a football standpoint here with you know, they showed some
pictures of the facilities that they just opened up. You know,
the stadium, you know, sold out season tickets, all the
sweet sales, all the sweets are sold out as well.
Then just their location, you know, obviously being in Texas,
but they don't have a division another division on football team.
I think it's like a three and a half hour
radius and that's you know, I mean that's something that
(10:57):
that Dakotas in Idaho like they benefit from not having
to compete with you know, fan support and corporate sponsors
and those sort of things. So that's also going you
know in the favor of UTR GV and then you
know in a huge metro area as well. So speak
to them a little bit and just the potential you
see in that football program.
Speaker 3 (11:15):
Yeah, I mean when President Bailey and Chase come when
we first met and we were talking first really talking
realignment and them and the opportunity.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
I mean, we were really focused on football, right.
Speaker 3 (11:24):
They wanted to make sure they had league alignment to
bring their program in and get it off to a
great start, and that regionality really spoke to them. And
so at the time, again when you see plans and renderings,
you kind of get an ideal of with us. And again,
but you're setting expectations. I tell you, they exceeded all
of my expectations thus far without even kicking off just yet.
And we disregard me. You talked about their facilities, right
(11:46):
and knowing to planning and you know kind of the
detail that went into that from from Chase's standpoint as
an athletic director, but seeing that it's not only just
the athletic department being bought in its university alignment, right
and all they do and they are the same page.
And then you take that out to the community and
you mentioned it best. Yes, they have an opportunity there
being near no other Division I programs to really capture
(12:08):
a market that's been untapped. And I mean they're just
chomping at the bit. I mean, we were doing interviews
a year ago talking about football. We're talking basketball season,
and all they want to talk about was football, And
so that really got me excited and understanding. Of course,
coach Bush, you know, being a former Southland guy as
a student athlete and coach, and you know, coming up
in this league, he knew all the history and know
(12:30):
what this league's about, and this building up the right way,
like focused on the high school students last year and
getting over one hundred recruits to campus and it's a
couple of transfers, and then complimenting that this year has
been really intentional from their standpoint, and what they're doing
in our league is not just me being excited. The
rest of the coaches in the room were really excited
about it. And then bringing us to ten. It was
like perfect timing, right as we talk about going into
(12:52):
playing a nine game conference schedule in the future and
then having a true champion so that you're not missing
any opponents. And so I think a lot of you're
looking forward to getting down there, and I think at
the same time, I think they'll have a great travel party,
just because again it's so regional.
Speaker 2 (13:06):
They have three different airports.
Speaker 3 (13:07):
Down there you getting in and out of, but they're
still not that far away unless they're coming all the
way over to the Louisianas from getting in and put
filling up that gas team to come and watch the games.
So that's really going to increase our visual presence, you know,
whether it be on ESPN Plus or linear.
Speaker 2 (13:21):
And I think for their institution, it's only going to
grow more.
Speaker 3 (13:24):
Man, they already have over thirty thousand students, so you
add that on to especially with the access to the
amount of people that come across the border daily just
re work and things of that nature. And there's those
three communities getting together. I'm truly excited. I hot if
you hear my voice, but I'm pumped up to get
down there. At the same point in time, this is
like kind of anti right, My anxiety levels are going
(13:45):
in because something that we talked about for so long
so to see if to come in fruition. There's really
pumped for them and what it will bring. And I
know it would be a lot of tears shed that day.
But at the same point in time, a lot of excitement.
And I'm really excited about the food. Right, that's a
whole nother introduction and what's going to happen to our league. Right,
We've been so Occajun focused and a little text mex
I think you're gonna get a true Mexican a Bill
down there and see what that game that He's.
Speaker 1 (14:07):
Like, yeah, you just mentioned you know, you guys moving
to nine games, nine conference games with now the FCS,
you know, fully moving into twelve game regular season starting
next year, the Big Skuys also moving to a nine
game conference schedule. I think the Silicon will likely moved
to a nine game conference schedule as well with the
with the Tennessee Tech addition. But you guys were first.
(14:30):
I mean, you guys set the table for the for
the SEC, right, you guys beat them. He beat them
to the punts for the nine game conference schedule. But
what what played in that decision of moving to nine
conference games?
Speaker 2 (14:40):
You know? Yeah, I'll kind of alluded to.
Speaker 3 (14:42):
It's like we want a more regional division one games, right,
and the FCS we wanted to determine a true champion
and going through that and so playing a full conference
slate is awesome. And then it's been harder and harder
to really sustain budgets and focused on nil revenue share
along the way, so more regional, we can stay in
our games and what and not get on too many planes.
(15:05):
If we had a good relationship with the Big Sky
and some of our non conference I don't expect that
the waiver.
Speaker 2 (15:09):
I expect them to still go continue to play those games.
Speaker 3 (15:12):
Same thing, which is so cond I think you'll see
a little more with us with the United Athletic Conference
too in some of my conversations, and there's been a
good partnership, and of course the OVC is still hanging.
Speaker 2 (15:21):
In and consider that all part of our area.
Speaker 3 (15:24):
And I mean, I don't know if you saw that
UIW actually signed a home and home with North Dakota
State coming there for the future.
Speaker 2 (15:30):
So you know, although it is not going to take
away from our non conference opportunities.
Speaker 3 (15:33):
So once we realize that that those opportunities still exist
and that you know, we're looking at you know, kind
of open lens that's trying to see through the forest
of what will happen at the FBS level, and as
they continue to prioritize playing and then you've see that
with the SEC release that it's our requirement right that
they play a compelling power core opponent, you know, going
forward to add that too, it so schedule is getting
(15:53):
a little tougher. We might not have those same guarantee opportunities,
but that also you know, by going to nine games
helped insulate us a little war, protect us that our
coaches won't be out, you know, they're trying to find
a game and it's playing these you know, obscure regions
in hopes of that. But at the same point in time,
I think it's a commitment across FCS from all our
commissioners that we want to continue going our brand.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Right.
Speaker 3 (16:14):
We wet so many opportunities for student athletes to thrive
and that we don't want to take away chasing the
dream of following everyday FBS is doing and kind of
stand alone and what we're able to do, which is
why that week zero came about in our legislation, and
so I'm going to continue pushing that envelope as more
conferences go to nine games. We're still focusing on those
three opportunities and maybe more so too, because you probably
(16:36):
make it one guarantee game for everyone that we're focusing
on playing outside of our conference to get that litmus
test on where we stack up nationally, right, because we
want to give the committee the best, you know, metrics
that they can you know, can have, and I think
you know, we've been challenging them on consistency and what
they're looking at, and a lot of it being the
eye tests, but also in the metrics and head to
heads and comparative schedules that you know, we do have
(16:58):
enough of a non conference to continue competing. So I
just appreciate our coaches and at first they was like, ah,
we're not sure about this this yet, and then we
started just talking about it, talking more through coming together
and say, hey, you know, it really is important.
Speaker 2 (17:11):
That each brand because if you miss someone and you
hopefully it's not a rival.
Speaker 3 (17:14):
So we tried a new scheduling formula that you know
you're almost scheduling in pods and then you know you're
missing someone every other year and when we initially start
looking at it, so now knowing we'll have a full
slate and that won't happen anymore. I think my first year,
I got ridiculed for missing out in the McNeice Northwestern
State game and I never won that again.
Speaker 2 (17:32):
But you look at.
Speaker 3 (17:33):
Northwestern State and McNeese, they all they both have like
four roundals in the league, and so when you missed
the games, so we won't have that our fans to
get a full slate South on football, and that's just
important and we continue to push our brand forward.
Speaker 1 (17:45):
The FCS Championship game heading to Nashville after fifteen years,
I believe in Frisco. I know, the Southland Conference had
you know, played a big part in just you know,
operationally around the FCS Championship and now the OVS will
be taking on those responsibilities. I know that it is
going to be in Nashville at least for the next
two years. So it just your over our thoughts on
(18:07):
the Championship game moving, you know, maybe a little bitter sweet,
you know, something new, but at the same time, like
you know, it's kind of not you know within the
South and now as far as you know, helping out
with that game, right.
Speaker 3 (18:18):
No, I mean you talk about game has been you
know with US World, but fourteen fifteen years right with
our conference and you know get my predecessor to Tom
Burnett having that vision.
Speaker 2 (18:27):
With the city of Frisco and what are you evolved
to it.
Speaker 3 (18:29):
I mean you've seen I mean way North Dakota State
as they were taking over and outline I was volunteering
on that game back in twenty ten and eleven and
seeing this and so with that said, is you know
it does it will impact our community because it really
exposed said football at the top levels and having a
premier venue like FC Dallas. But you know, look all
good things they needed to improve the venue and from
(18:51):
their standpoint from a fan experience, I imagine MESSI had
a lot to do with that.
Speaker 2 (18:55):
And in MLS soccer, right, they adding more fans.
Speaker 3 (18:59):
But you know, when that comes back online, it will
be one of deep permiere MLS facility and so to speak,
and provide another opportunity hopefully to return.
Speaker 2 (19:08):
But you know, at the same point in time, I'm
thrilled about Nashville.
Speaker 3 (19:11):
I think being essentially located a little more, a little
bit more accessible, with larger airport for everyone, and just
that entertainment that's built in around it, right and the
things that they're already you know, starting to look at.
And I like to think Crisco and our staff at
the South lond Conference all played a hand in that,
because you know, we continue to build every year on
everything in surrounded the game, from fan experience, student athlete experience,
(19:33):
and this overall, you know, how do we can put
the best product on national television and now Nashville taking
it to the up team. Now, you know, going over
to Vanderbilt Stadium. I know Candice Lead what's they're done
with their renovation. I was watching a little bit of
the SEC that their deal on Netflix. It looks pretty
cool how that's coming along, and so excited to see
them fill it up and kind of set the table
for us. But hopefully a Southland team and whoever else
(19:55):
right that makes it there. And look, if I'm fortunate
enough to be blessed to have two South Hind teams,
not argue that, but maybe taking it on our own hands,
we'll see some more success happening from the South one
conference we have. Our last one was what that COVID
year with Sam Houston State, and so we'd love to
see one of our schools playing back in that without
us stressing over hosting it anymore and put that stress
on the OBC conference with that and Beth and her
(20:18):
crew there, but she's really been down in and really
taking a lot of feedback, and I think one thing
you're going to see that's better is that we're truly
making this an experience for all conferences and administrators too.
That's where it starts, right and bting it out, maybe
you know, doing a symposium of some sorts for fcs,
you know, bringing in some key speakers, you'll see some
sponsored parties that you tipical see at the NCAA Final
(20:38):
four or CP event, and so just really thrilled from
it all coming together, and ty Halpan has done a
great job of leading that charge too. So we just
want to be supporters and championing and imagine our crew
like James and Andrew b.
Speaker 2 (20:51):
Shack and a few others on our staff will still
be involved.
Speaker 3 (20:54):
Bruce Ludlow, who's another one who's been working the game
and so looking forward to see what's going to happen
with it and doing our part they can, ensuring that
they won't drop off at all.
Speaker 1 (21:03):
Yeah, the Souffland for you know a few years ago
was it's put on the defensive a little bit when
it came to realignment. But now you guys are in
a position of strength, our strength right with you know,
ten football members, twelve full time members. Is are you
guys good with where you're at? Or is realignment always
kind of a discussion as far as you know, expansion
(21:23):
targets or where things at with those type of conversations.
Speaker 3 (21:26):
Yeah, you know, it's funny you say that it's coming
into this year like stabilities everything right, and we finally
have that. We're singing from the same hymnal, you know,
all twelve members you know, even or not football play
members fcs. But at the same point in time, it's
like it's my job to always kind of again look
through the four see what's out there and other opportunities
or anything else that will help, you know, really improve.
Speaker 2 (21:47):
Our brand as a conference.
Speaker 3 (21:48):
Right, we don't want to add this to add, but
now we're getting into you know, figure out what's that
criteria for our next number. And obviously it's moratorium in
place for those you know, transitioning members and looking there.
But we also you know, look the ever changing world
of vision one in college athletics right now as is
you know, a different division ie governor structure. Now what
does that look like from for an FBS standpoint, and
(22:11):
opportunities there too.
Speaker 2 (22:12):
So you know, we're not being asked. I'm not out.
You know, I don't have to beat the pavement anymore.
I'm glad I can take calls now as opposed to always.
Speaker 3 (22:19):
But I'm always keeping the pulse of everything, and you know,
we want we want people that want to be a
part of the Southland and grow the band brand, right,
not folks to feel like they just either need to
drop down or they you know, we're the only option.
We don't want that because we're going in a totally
different direction.
Speaker 2 (22:32):
You know.
Speaker 3 (22:32):
It's not the same SOUTHLND conference that we had back
in twenty twenty one. You know, I like to think
we're more thriving brand. Of course, the rebrand and everything
that happened with that took us to that. But now
it's our new TV deal, we obviously have to be
you know, Cosmit saying that we're putting the best games
on and that is compelling content, right, and so we
want that and from a student athlete standpoint, ensuring.
Speaker 2 (22:52):
That we're providing and not getting away from that amateurism. Right.
I know it's changed.
Speaker 3 (22:56):
You can provide nil, but I like to think our
schools are doing it with the right reasons, whether it's
revenue share or nil. We're still graduating student athletes and
educated on what to do with that funding and that
they're receiving now and that revenue. But in the same time,
we're still folks on getting degrees in our hands, right,
And that's where the amateurism comes in and say, hey,
you're not coming to us because we have the biggest
bad you know, necessarily either student athletes. Reference Now you're
(23:18):
coming to us because you still want that student athlete experience.
We're gonna give you a platform either take it to
the next level. You know, you talk about the Jaylyx
Hunts and the cam Wards, right and if you come
here and you know with us as a youngster, you know,
as freshman or you're becoming a sophomore junior and use
our platform as a stepping stone to go play in
a power forward, we want that, right.
Speaker 2 (23:36):
We're going to celebrate that because you're leave it a
better than you founded.
Speaker 3 (23:39):
And now we'll have even more opportunities of people looking
at us, our student athletes and potential recruits to hey,
I can go play in the South and get to
a while. I want to go and accomplish through my
athletic talents. And so at the end of the day, yes,
right now, today we're good at twelve and we're going
to celebrate our twelve get back to doing our business
as a conference. We're starting to get schedules in place
and finally have those out for the next or five years,
(24:00):
and those are things people don't think about. The more
change we have, the less likely we are to schedule
those you know, high level, non non confidence matchups in
any sport, but mainly football. As you know, Sam, those
things are scheduled out. You know some now we've talking
about UIW North Dakota State. You know, they're looking at
twenty thirties now and what those matchups look like. So
I don't want to handcuff our athletic directors and football
(24:22):
administrators and coaches on seeking out you know what those are.
That I continue to challenge them to upgrade schedules and
you know, hopefully like last year is Southeastern, we started
having some success.
Speaker 2 (24:31):
When we do upgrade, probably won't go overloaded like they
did last year, right.
Speaker 3 (24:36):
Be wise about it and get rewarded for but looking
for those key opportunities and so. But yeah, so right now,
we just focused on growing and brand and doing things
the SOUTHWND way, and if opportunities present, the South will
be ready, I think, as we've proven in the past.
Speaker 1 (24:49):
Yeah, you keep on touching on my next question. So
you're making the transitions pretty easy. So I did want
to wrap up here by asking you about this new
governance structure. You know, some fans are curious about some
fans don't like the end of the weed stuff. But
with the power forward conferences kind of having weighted voting
power to push through certain things. As a mid major conference,
(25:09):
what are your thoughts on just this overall new governance
structure and how it impacts you and your fellow man
major conferences.
Speaker 3 (25:16):
Yeah, you know, I think initially Sam, it was tough
in the concept that we'd be losing representation on a
lot of these Division one committees that we participate on.
But at the same point in time, you know, when
I have folks like Greg Sanke, you know, you look
at Jim Phillips, you know, now Brett your Mark and
more of a business side of it, Antoni of it
in Big ten really, you know, prepping their conferences and
(25:37):
having the resources right that really gotten us where we are.
Speaker 2 (25:40):
Like, it's a lot of things that we have.
Speaker 3 (25:42):
As a Division one members, even as mid majors and
even fcs is because of what their brands and where
they forced forward and created a market.
Speaker 2 (25:49):
Well it'd be television sponsorships, so on and so forth.
Speaker 3 (25:53):
So I'm still in a belief that it can all
work out together as one one ecosystem.
Speaker 2 (25:57):
Communication has to.
Speaker 3 (25:58):
Be strong, and I think we're working on that in
a commissioner room and we're actually talking through it as
FCS commissioners what's best for FCS right now. It gives
us an opportunity were without trying to really create a separate,
totally separate subdivision, but to work together more collectively and
challenge us to be on the same page. And that
haven't been it since I come aboard. It hadn't been
there historically, But I'd like to say now we have
(26:19):
a much more collegial group, we understand what kind of
what our our goals are throughout and then understanding that
now even with fewer representation opportunities that whoever's serving and
those FCS capacity and they are more limited now because
like it's for instance, on a board of you know,
administration or the board of governors things, it'll rotate and
(26:41):
we'll only have one or two spots or two spots
every two years.
Speaker 2 (26:45):
To put a member on. Well, you have eleven.
Speaker 3 (26:47):
FCS conferences, so you know you got to go on
a rotation of some swords and figure that piece out.
Speaker 2 (26:52):
And I think we've done that collectively.
Speaker 3 (26:53):
But whoever's representing SCS in that capacity now is a
good steward of all our what all of our missions
are coming together, and you can't be selfish in that, right,
And I like think that's how the power core now
have gotten where they are, Like they basically at some
point got on the same page. Now they don't agree
on everything and you never will, but what are those
high level topics that we come together. So I'm thrilled
(27:14):
that you know those A four, you know they've really
set out a course. So really what's best for college athletics, right,
and let us forge it? And you know from our
standpoint that we were never trying to hold them back,
but we just want to be good partners, right and
all of this and so continue to celebrate them, continue
to play the games right. We want access to you know,
definitely our athletic our automatic qualifiers for NCAA tournaments. But
(27:35):
as we're talking about non conference scheduling, right, we never
want to be put out. We have a great thing
going in the South one with our Louisiana schools and LSU.
You see it a lot on the Texas side. We
have plenty to choose from and so we still want
those scheduling partnerships to happen as they you know, the
years go by. But more importantly, you know, looking for
fcs to really band together and continue to putting ourselves,
(27:55):
setting ourselves aside of a carving on our niche of
what it would be going forward for the future. That's
I think it would be a good thing for our
student athletes. Again, I didn't start off that way, right,
I'm very curious, very nervous, a lot of anxiety. But
as we continue to meet more as commissioners and understand, Hey,
the house settlement brought on a lot of change, right,
we have to adjust and you know, change brings about opportunities.
(28:15):
You know, have some challenges, but those challenges will turn
on opportunities and now it's a different way of doing
business and hopefully we be better off forward and provide
a better student athlete experience at the end.
Speaker 2 (28:24):
Of the day.
Speaker 1 (28:25):
Yeah, well this has been awesome. I appreciate your time,
especially you know we're in the thick of things now
as all the seasons kickoff. So thank you so much
commissioner for joining the podcast today.
Speaker 3 (28:36):
No, thank you, Sam. Hey, one time, We're good. You'll
get you to say there is a non conference season.
I'm gonna guarantee it. Someone's good to upset and we
want to see you flast that south Wind vers all
y'all at some point. All right, we've got to get
you a helmet back there too, but we make sure
we make that happen.
Speaker 1 (28:50):
Yeah, I got a mcnease one, but other than that lacking.
So yeah, I happy to increase the memorabilia back here
behind me, the PA
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