Laura Rutledge’s “SEC Nation” replacement has been revealed.
“SportsCenter” anchor Matt Barrie has been named the new host of the college football program, ESPN announced Wednesday.
“I’m a college football junkie and beyond excited to host ‘SEC Nation’ from the greatest game day atmospheres in the South,” Barrie said in a statement. “It takes me back to my years in Columbia, S.C. when Steve Spurrier was the head coach of the Gamecocks and getting to experience everything that makes the SEC and its schools one of a kind.
“The show, the crew and everyone involved in Nation since it launched in 2014 has made it appointment viewing on Saturday mornings. I look forward to continuing its legacy from campuses this fall.”
Barrie will make his debut on the show in July at the SEC Football Kickoff Media Days.
He’s worked at the Worldwide Leader since 2013, having previously hosted “College Football Final” on Saturday nights.
“We are thrilled to have Matt join the Nation crew on the desk,” ESPN senior vice president of production Meg Aronowitz said in a press release from the company. “His dynamic energy and extensive knowledge of college football make him a tremendous addition to the team, and we look forward to seeing him in action this fall.”
He fills the shoes of Rutledge, who penned a heartfelt goodbye to “SEC Nation” this week after more than a decade on the show.
“Ten years ago, I walked onto this set not fully knowing what the journey would become,” Rutledge said. “Today, I walk away knowing it became one of the most meaningful chapters of my life.
“SEC Nation has never just been a show to me. It’s been a family, a front-row seat to the passion of college football and a weekly reminder of what makes the SEC so special. From the roar of packed stadiums on crisp fall mornings to the quiet, behind-the-scenes moments that viewers never see, every second has meant something. Seeing all of you show up for us every Saturday and feeling genuinely honored you wanted to take pictures and chat will always stick with me.”
Rutledge is expected to expand her role covering the NFL for the network ahead of the 2027 Super Bowl, which will be broadcast by ESPN.
