College football recruiting faces a hidden reality: everyone’s breaking the rules, from head coaches to boosters and even high school trainers. Are programs like Miami and Ole Miss just the tip of the iceberg? Brian Smith uncovers the systemic web fueling Transfer Portal inducements and NIL deals, highlighting why Darian Mensah and Luke Ferrelli’s drama are only the most visible cases in a widespread game of back-channel negotiations.

Smith exposes how college coaching financial incentives keep cheating rampant, with job security and massive salaries enticing both assistants and staff. He questions whether the NCAA or state governments can truly police these actions, especially in places like Tennessee, where bold laws protect teams’ interests. Without clear rules and harsh penalties—like scholarship losses or playoff bans—can college football ever level the playing field? Is appointing a commissioner, possibly even Nick Saban, the next big step? The chase for wins continues, fair or not.

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