I look at it like this: the SEC doesn’t really need Miami because they already have the narrative, the media machine and ESPN behind them. What they do need is for Miami to stay out of the way. That’s why, IMO, you see Saban out there pushing NIL caps, conference spending limits and penalties for schools that choose to remain Independent. Whether people agree with those ideas or not, the end result is the same. It puts more restrictions on programs like Miami while protecting the current power structure.
The B1G is a completely different situation. They need more true power brands if they’re going to compete with the SEC at the top of the sport. Miami gives them a national brand, recruiting value, a major market and a program with enough history to matter.Then you have the TV angle. The B1G’s deals are going to be up for negotiation, NBC is already tied to Notre Dame and a healthy Miami gives them another premium brand to put in big games. It also gives them more leverage if they’re trying to force Notre Dame into the conference.
So I don’t look at it as simply, “Which conference wants Miami?” I look at which conference actually benefits from Miami being strong.
The SEC already has its machine. The B1G needs more national brands, more premium matchups and more leverage to build something that can actually challenge the SEC. That’s where Miami fits.