In a stunning and unexpected move, NCAA Commissioner Charlie Baker delivered a historic address that sent shockwaves through the college football landscape. Speaking before a packed press conference at NCAA headquarters, Baker announced a series of sweeping reforms aimed at reshaping the future of college athletics. But among all programs, it was the Missouri Tigers who found themselves most directly—and dramatically—impacted.
The most groundbreaking part of Baker’s announcement involved the introduction of a new revenue-sharing model between universities and their student-athletes. Under the proposed plan, programs in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) will now be required to allocate a percentage of their media rights and postseason earnings directly to the players. This comes as a response to years of pressure from athletes, lawmakers, and advocacy groups calling for fair compensation in an era of billion-dollar TV contracts and sponsorships.
While the change affects all FBS schools, Missouri finds itself at a crossroads due to the timing and implications of another revelation in Baker’s address: starting in the 2026 season, only programs meeting a revised set of competitive and financial criteria will be eligible for the College Football Playoff. These new standards include not only on-field success and strength of schedule, but also athlete compensation levels, academic support infrastructure, and compliance with new health and wellness protocols.
Missouri, which had recently been gaining momentum in the SEC and enjoyed a breakout 2024 season, is now on the edge. Although the Tigers had been positioning themselves as dark horse CFP contenders, this announcement forces them into urgent action to remain eligible. According to sources within the athletic department, Missouri’s current financial model will require significant restructuring to comply with the new payout and support regulations.
In his address, Baker emphasized that the reforms were designed “not just to modernize college football, but to protect and empower the athletes who make the sport what it is.” Yet, his words also served as a wake-up call for programs like Missouri, who must now adapt swiftly or risk being left out of the game’s biggest stage.
Reactions across the country have ranged from praise to panic. Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz, while caught off guard, struck a defiant tone in his post-announcement comments. “This is a challenge, no doubt,” Drinkwitz said. “But it’s one we’re ready to face head-on. Mizzou isn’t backing down—we’re going to do what it takes.”
Fans and alumni have flooded social media with questions and concerns, wondering how this affects recruiting, facilities, and long-term competitiveness. With the 2025 season just months away, Missouri must now navigate a new college football landscape where tradition, talent, and financial readiness must all align.
One thing is certain: Commissioner Baker’s speech marked a turning point in college football history. And for the Missouri Tigers, it’s a moment that could define their future—for b
etter or worse.
Be the first to comment