Is the sky falling in college sports? Here’s what Utahns think

August 25, 2026 - 01:46

A new survey from the Deseret News and the Hinckley Institute of Politics takes a close look at how residents of Utah feel about the current direction of college athletics. The poll asked people about their biggest worries, if any, regarding the changing landscape of the NCAA, from conference realignment to athlete compensation.

The results show a mix of cautious optimism and real concern. While a solid majority of Utahns still say they enjoy following college teams, many admit they are troubled by the sheer amount of money now flowing through the sport. Nearly half of those surveyed said they believe the focus on big TV contracts and playoff payouts has taken away from the traditional student-athlete experience. That feeling was strongest among older residents, with those over 55 expressing the most skepticism about where things are headed.

At the same time, younger Utahns, particularly those between 18 and 34, were more accepting of the changes. They see name, image, and likeness deals as a fair way for players to earn a share of the revenue they help generate. For this group, the idea of athletes being paid is not a scandal but a simple matter of justice.

There is also a clear divide on the issue of conference hopping. Many fans said they are tired of watching schools switch leagues every few years, chasing better TV exposure. They worry that rivalries built over decades are being sacrificed for short-term financial gain. Still, a notable chunk of respondents said they understand why schools have to make those moves to stay competitive.

the poll suggests that Utahns are not ready to say the sky is falling, but they are watching closely. They still love the games, the rivalries, and the school pride. But they want leaders to remember that the people in the stands and watching at home care about more than just the bottom line. The full results of the poll are available for those who want to dig into the numbers.