You're romanticizing a past that wasn't always better. The portal creates new, immediate stakes. That NC State linebacker who transferred from Alabama? He's playing with a chip on his shoulder, and beating him means something right now. Florida's win over Tennessee last year had massive gravity, and half those key players were portal additions. The rivalry intensity comes from the logos on the helmet, not just the names on the jerseys. Look at Graham Mertz, he's a Gator now and that Tennessee game meant everything to him instantly. The animosity transfers with the uniform. These games still define seasons, look at Florida's 2022 Utah win with a brand new roster. That felt plenty heavy.