Greg Sankey addresses SEC breakaway talk as Michigan tries to steal spotlight with AD Warde Manuel decision

Key Points:

• SEC commissioner Greg Sankey opened the 2026 media days amid ongoing conference battles, including Michigan's announcement of its internal investigation findings leading to Athletic Director Warde Manuel's planned resignation.
• The college athletics landscape is in flux, with key negotiations involving the SEC, Big Ten, and U.S. senators focusing on limiting conference expansion to 20 teams and potential SEC self-governance if legislation fails.
• Michigan's $12 million investigation into its athletics department, triggered by the firing of former coach Sherrone Moore, revealed leadership strengths but also failures in oversight and accountability, prompting Manuel to step down by year-end.
• Despite the turmoil off the field, media days will also spotlight on-field topics, including LSU and Ole Miss's rivalry and Texas Longhorns' prospects under coach Steve Sarkisian, with players like Arch Manning drawing attention.
• The week promises intense discussions on college sports governance and future rules, but actual football performance remains a central focus for fans and media alike.