SEC brand has exploded since the 1980’s. I remember when the SEC game of the week was on TBS and was not a huge ratings draw. Now, the networks ask them how many Brinks trucks do we need to bring to your HQ in order to televise your games.
I think when Steve Spurrier came to Florida in 1990 his methods caused the league to become adjust to his offenses and the league came better. Never foresaw it become as dominant as now though.
We forget how Steve Spurrier did change the game of college football and definitely moved the SEC up a notch or two along the way...