The Big 12 was a one bid Playoff league last year with BYU getting left out despite a stellar 11-2 season. Do they need to level up their non-conference scheduling?

On today's episode of Locked On College Football, Spencer McLaughlin and 'The Portal' podcast host Brian Smith discuss Mississippi's NIL decision to make it a tax-free ordeal. Will that shift recruiting for the Rebels and Bulldogs in the SEC?

Virginia Tech hiring James Franklin makes for one of the most fascinating teams that isn't likely to contend in 2026. The Hokies face a rather daunting schedule in his first year.

00:00 Big 12 Path to Playoff

03:19 Perception, Wins, and Conference Respect

07:33 College Football Conferences and Scheduling

13:38 Lane Kiffin Law Debate

18:54 Recruiting, NIL, and Development Paths

21:48 Franklin, Grunkemeyer, and Penn State

23:14 ACC Schedule Insights & Analysis

29:33 Virginia Tech's Tough ACC Schedule

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