Big Ten believes its reputation as a top-heavy league is unfair as it claims conference supremacy

College football’s “best conference” debate resurfaced at Big Ten and SEC media days, with the Big Ten pushing back on claims it’s top-heavy. Commissioner Tony Petitti argued the league’s recent College Football Playoff dominance reflects strength throughout its depth, citing Michigan (2023), Ohio State (2024) and Indiana (2025) CFP championships. He said the idea that Big Ten mid-tier teams aren’t tested “is just not right,” emphasizing that CFP success requires teams to succeed in a tougher regular season. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey countered that the SEC creates weekly competition. Petitti also pointed to strong SP rankings, where the Big Ten placed three of the top four teams in 2025.