Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz Shares Significant Concerns for Athletes, Families Amid Conference Moves

Missouri football coach Eli Drinkwitz addressed the media on Saturday in order to express his concerns about the realignment of college football conferences. 

With a slew of changes coming to college sports in regard to the size and structure of some of the biggest conferences, Drinkwitz was outspoken about the impact the new conference alignment will have on travel, and how that can affect young student athletes.

In a passionate monologue, Drinkwitz questioned whether the decision-makers considered “the cost” these moves would have on athletes. 

“Did we count the cost for the student athletes involved in this decision? What cost is it to those student athletes? We’re talking about a football decision … but what about softball and baseball who have to travel across country?” asked Drinkwitz, via Bryan Hudnell. 

“Did we ask any of them? I don’t worry at all about the game … But did we consider the people that we are entrusted with. Did we consider the student athlete?”

WATCH: #Mizzou head coach Eli Drinkwitz spoke from the heart after today's practice about the state of college athletics and conference realignment. This is something you're going to want to hear. ⬇️ @KRCG13 pic.twitter.com/bKKNQYJ6a5

— Bryan Hudnell | KRCG 13 (@BryanHudnell) August 5, 2023

Oregon and Washington are set to follow in USC and UCLA’s footsteps with plans to join the Big Ten in 2024. Colorado previously announced its departure for the Big 12 in 2024, and on Friday fellow Pac-12 programs Arizona, Arizona State and Utah announced that they will also make the move.

With so many moving pieces, Drinkwitz voiced his concerns about whether anyone is thinking beyond the financial implications of these realignment deals and giving thought to the students and their families who will be directly impacted by the agreed upon changes.