College football is finally back after months of NCAA lawsuits, NIL drama and congressional fights
After nearly seven months dominated by NCAA lawsuits, NIL disputes and congressional wrangling, college football is finally returning, with teams beginning fall practice camps this week ahead of the season starting in 25 days. The offseason drama has overshadowed on-field preparations, but attention is now shifting back to the game itself even as legal and legislative battles continue in the background.
Among the unresolved issues is a Colorado judge's ruling on 2022 class eligibility that has rocked the NCAA, while the "Protect College Sports Act" is due for a Senate floor vote this week. Despite this ongoing uncertainty over the future of college athletics, teams are pressing ahead with preparations, offering fans the prospect of actual football after months of headlines focused on courtrooms and Capitol Hill rather than the field.
- College football teams start fall practice camps this week.
- Season kicks off in 25 days after turbulent NCAA/NIL offseason.
- Senate to vote on "Protect College Sports Act" amid ongoing legal disputes.
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College football is played by teams from US universities and colleges, with the NCAA overseeing many of the competitions. Its rules and the way the sport is organised have been challenged in court and debated by lawmakers.
NIL means athletes can earn money from the use of their name, image and likeness, including through sponsorships. Disputes over those payments, athletes’ eligibility to compete and the NCAA’s authority have left questions about how college sports will be governed.
The NCAA, athletes and universities have a stake in those decisions, while Congress is considering whether federal law should set rules for college sports. The outcome could affect athletes’ opportunities and how teams and competitions operate.