Once the $500M from the Simons gift kicks in I wouldn’t be surprised to see SB as a top 20 public within 5 years. Of course, football will still be a bottom dweller.
Top 20 would be insane. I don't think that's all that likely, but I do think we do still have some move to move.
yes and no. by old standards, sure, it's unlikely.
but the new age of rankings means different criteria. socio-economic status climbing, DEI, etc. is now big game. these are factors- and they are BIG factors now. in fact, some top top top universities (see ivy law schools) are withdrawing from the rankings altogether, due to perceived biases of the past. so things are changing and id argue SB has the advantage, given that it largely serves the underserved, price is low, large student body, etc. Never say never!