@Clancy59
I follow some college sports, primarily football and basketball, and I root for schools with some connection. Between my nieces, my 2 brothers, and I, we've attended 8 different ones.
Yes, preferential treatment has always been there, and I do support some of it. However, the millions of dollars accruing to well-performing teams, has pushed coaches, athletic directors, and even some presidents to skirt regulations. Maybe punishment for infractions should be more severe, but I doubt there'll be significant changes in the foreseeable future. A school's football program often generates enough revenue to fund other intercollegiate sports.
Looking at the big school in my area, the University of Miami, once they started winning championships in football and baseball, contributions soared. And not only to the athletic department. I think many alumni want their name associated with winners and are more likely to give. The almighty dollar rules.