LSU Athletic Director Discusses SEC Unity After Coach Comments

LSU athletic director Verge Ausberry told ESPN on Thursday that he has spoken with coaches about the importance of unity within the SEC. Ausberry, who was promoted in November after more than 30 years at the university, said the message has been to focus on LSU. He added that competition occurs on the field during games and that breaking apart hurts the conference.

SEC commissioner Greg Sankey declined to say whether fines or sanctions are coming for Kiffin or Texas coach Steve Sarkisian. Sankey said he has addressed the issues directly in meetings this week and does not announce public reprimands at podiums. Kiffin, who previously coached at Ole Miss, made comments in a Vanity Fair interview about recruits and campus diversity.

Sarkisian told USA Today that a degree from Ole Miss could be obtained by taking basket weaving and later called the remark a poor choice of words.

Presidents and chancellors issued a joint statement opposing pooled media rights. Sankey said there is no data supporting predicted revenue increases from such an arrangement and stressed the conference's desire to retain flexibility over scheduling.

No votes or decisions were made on the future of the College Football Playoff format. Sankey said the league has supported a 16-team format while keeping an open mind.