Monday, November 9, 2026

Q&A: Learfield IMG College’s Cole Gahagan

  • Gahagan said NIL rule changes will “be big. It’s probably going to be complex.”
  • Fans will come back hungrier for sports, presenting a big opportunity for marketers.
Photo Credit: James Lang-USA TODAY Sports

Want more from Front Office Sports
in your search results?

Add Front Office Sports on Google

On the latest episode of Fundamentals with Ian Thomas, Learfield IMG College President and CEO Cole Gahagan talked all things college sports marketing, including the direction of his company, the effects of COVID-19 on the industry and the potential impact of NIL rule changes.

Learfield IMG College’s focus going forward:
– Continued investment in data aggregation and mining to understand fans.
– Creating a “true media company that’s engaging to fans and compelling to brand partners.”
– Extend traditional sports marketing beyond the stadium or arena.

On COVID-19: “Irrefutably, the next several years will be very different than what we’ve known and as a result we’re all pivoting. Everybody is having to think about his business differently today than we did 60-90 days ago.”

On NIL rule developments: “No matter what shakes out on the heels of these recommendations, it’s going to be big. It’s probably going to be complex.”

Download the FOS App

The business of sports, in your pocket.

QR code to download the app

Scan the QR code to get the app now.

Linkedin
Whatsapp
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Terrell Owens Served Defamation Suit at Amazon Documentary Event

Owens had been evading service. A video of him being served went viral.
Kalshi's logo is displayed on a smartphone placed on a reflective surface onto which a betting curve is projected in Creteil, France, on March 9, 2026, during a major scandal and a $54 million lawsuit concerning bets related to recent strikes in Iran. (Photo by Samuel Boivin/NurPhoto)NO USE FRANCE

Kalshi’s Tribal Deal Faces Legal Challenge Amid Leadership Dispute

“We expect the case to be dismissed,” one of the defendants told FOS.

Stadium Issues Pile Up for NWSL Semifinals

It’s déjà vu for women’s sports fans.
Security officers secure the area as U.S. Vice President JD Vance plays golf at Trump Turnberry golf course, during his holiday, in Turnberry, Scotland, Britain, August 14, 2025.

Trump Turnberry’s Wait for Open Championship Drags On

The next available date is now 2030 with Carnoustie selected for 2029.
podcast thumbnail mobile
Front Office Sports Today

11/9/26 – Russini Makes Her Return, Press Secretary Dana White?, Kolek Retracts Swift Diss

0:00

Featured Today

Can MLS Capitalize on Son-Mania?

Korea and Tottenham fans alike have flocked to LAFC’s away matches.
Pickering High School North
November 4, 2026

High School Athletic Directors Say They’re Running ‘Mini Colleges’

ADs are managing a growing list of demands from athletes and parents.
October 30, 2026

How Injuries Hit Pro Marathoners in the Wallet

Staying healthy can get expensive—quickly.
Football - NFL - Houston Texans v Jacksonville Jaguars - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - October 18, 2026 The necklace of a Jacksonville Jaguars fan outside the stadium before the match
October 21, 2026

Die-Hard Sports Fandom Has Reached the Afterlife

Will fans pay $6,000 to memorialize their team loyalty?
October 20, 2026

Why Europe Is Pumping Out NBA Superstars

The NBA and NCAA have an increasingly European flavor.
November 8, 2026

Philip Rivers Expected To Be Hired as NC State Coach

Rivers played in the NFL last year and was coaching high school.
November 8, 2026

Michigan, Ohio State Flailing Despite Big Spending

Both lost as home favorites Saturday.
Sponsored

How Jeremy Bloom Is Reinventing the X Games

Jeremy Bloom discusses transforming the X Games into a global brand.
Jan 1, 2025; Pasadena, CA, USA; Helmets at the line of scrimmage as Oregon Ducks long snapper Luke Basso (43) snaps the ball against the Ohio State Buckeyes during a CFP Quarterfinal at Rose Bowl Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
November 6, 2026

Big Ten’s $49M NIL Cap Looms Over Ohio State–Oregon Matchup

Ohio State and Oregon each have estimated $50 million rosters this season.
Dec 15, 2025; Cary, NC, USA; Washington Huskies goalkeeper Jadon Bowton (1) holds up the National Championship trophy after the Huskies win the championship in overtime at First Horizon Stadium
November 6, 2026

Colleges Overwhelmingly Oppose Men’s Soccer Calendar Change

Enough schools voted against the fall-to-spring calendar to block the NCAA’s proposal.
November 5, 2026

Miami’s High-Priced QB Loses Top Target Before Notre Dame Clash

Mensah leads college football in multiple passing categories.
November 5, 2026

Cody Campbell’s Texas Tech Board Seat in Jeopardy After Elections

Gov.-elect Gina Hinojosa could replace Texas university board members.